Save Experience the ultimate plant-based comfort with this Creamy Spinach Walnut Pasta. Fresh baby spinach and toasted walnuts are blended into a velvety, vibrant green sauce that is as nutritious as it is delicious. It is the perfect solution for a quick and sophisticated weeknight meal.
Save This Italian-inspired dish relies on simple, wholesome ingredients to create a bold impact. The earthiness of the toasted walnuts perfectly complements the bright, fresh notes of lemon and garlic, creating a well-balanced sauce that clings beautifully to your favorite pasta shape.
Ingredients
- 350 g (12 oz) dried pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
- 120 g (1 cup) raw walnuts
- 120 g (4 cups) fresh baby spinach, packed
- 240 ml (1 cup) unsweetened plant-based milk (such as oat, soy, or almond)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Garnish: Extra toasted walnuts, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon zest
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml (1/2 cup) pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and golden. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Step 3
- In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the toasted walnuts (reserve a few for garnish), spinach, plant-based milk, garlic, nutritional yeast, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add more milk for a thinner sauce or more nutritional yeast for extra cheesiness.
- Step 5
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the spinach walnut sauce over the pasta and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky, creamy consistency.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped walnuts, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon zest if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the smoothest texture, use a high-speed blender for the sauce. Don't forget to reserve the pasta cooking water; the starch in that water is the secret ingredient that helps the sauce emulsify and coat the noodles perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra protein, you can stir in sautéed mushrooms or top the dish with grilled tofu. If you don't have walnuts, cashews or almonds work as excellent substitutes. To make this dish gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
Serviervorschläge
This vibrant green pasta is best enjoyed immediately while hot. For a complete dining experience, pair it with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio and a simple side salad.
Save Elevate your weeknight dinner rotation with this simple yet luxurious Creamy Spinach Walnut Pasta. It is a vibrant, plant-based meal that proves healthy eating can be both easy and incredibly satisfying.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, cashews or almonds work beautifully as substitutes. They'll create a similarly creamy sauce with a slightly different flavor profile. Use the same quantity as walnuts.
- → What plant-based milk works best for this dish?
Oat milk provides a naturally creamy texture, while soy milk adds protein richness. Almond milk also works well. Choose unsweetened varieties to keep the sauce savory and balanced.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
Reserve pasta cooking water before draining and use it to adjust consistency. Add gradually while tossing until you achieve a silky, creamy coating on the pasta.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
The sauce is naturally gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free pasta to make the entire dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- → Can I add protein to make this more filling?
Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, grilled tofu, or white beans add nutritional value and make the dish heartier. Stir them in before serving.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the fresh, herbal notes of spinach and the nuttiness of walnuts perfectly.