What makes green pasta green?

Green pasta gets its color from blended greens like spinach, basil, or kale. In this pasta recipe green , spinach and basil are quickly wilted and blended into a creamy sauce that coats the pasta with rich color and flavor.

Is green pasta healthier than regular pasta?

Yes, it can be. The sauce in green pasta recipes is usually made from vegetables, herbs, and healthy fats like olive oil or nuts—offering more nutrients than traditional cream- or cheese-based sauces. This particular recipe delivers fiber, antioxidants, and plant-based protein.

Can I make this green pasta vegan?

Absolutely. Just omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great substitute—it adds cheesy flavor and extra B vitamins without the dairy.

Can I meal prep this pasta recipe green?

Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. You can also prep the entire dish and reheat it gently with a splash of water or broth. It keeps well in airtight containers, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners.

Does this sauce taste like spinach?

Not strongly. The basil and lemon mellow the spinach flavor, making the sauce bright and balanced. The result is creamy, fresh, and mild—great for both picky eaters and green veggie lovers.

Pasta Recipe Green – 1 Creamy Sauce You’ll Make Weekly

Name: Pasta Recipe Green – 5 Easy Steps for a Healthy Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian Inspired
Ingredients: 3 garlic cloves, peeled; 2 tablespoons raw cashews; 3 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 8 ounces rigatoni pasta; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Red pepper flakes, optional

Description

Creamy green pasta recipe made with spinach, basil, garlic, and cashews. A healthy vegetarian dinner ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

3 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons raw cashews
3 cups fresh spinach leaves
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces rigatoni pasta
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add garlic and cashews and boil for 3 minutes.

3. Add spinach and basil and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Transfer ingredients to a blender and blend with olive oil until smooth.

5. Cook pasta until al dente and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.

6. Drain pasta and return to pot.

7. Add green sauce and lemon juice and toss.

8. Use pasta water to adjust consistency.

9. Stir in parmesan cheese.

10. Serve warm with red pepper flakes.

Notes

Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a vegan version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Add extra spinach for a brighter green color.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Pasta
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Italian Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 8mg

Keywords: pasta recipe green, spinach pasta, basil pasta, healthy pasta recipe