Green pasta is fresh, flavorful, and full of vibrant color. It’s a great way to enjoy more greens without sacrificing taste. Made with a blend of leafy vegetables, this dish comes together easily and looks beautiful on the plate.
Why We Love This Green Pasta Recipe
One of the best things about Green Pasta is its versatility. It is not only delicious but also customizable. You can add or swap in your favorite greens and nuts to fit your vibe. This delightful dish packs a punch of nutrients that will energize you throughout the day. From the leafy kale and spinach to the nutrient-dense broccoli, each ingredient contributes to a wholesome meal that is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Plus, the delightful aroma of garlic and basil will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere as you cook.
The simplicity of its preparation makes Green Pasta even more appealing. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal fuss, you can produce a meal that feels gourmet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet sophisticated enough for special occasions. Whether you use it as a main course or a side dish, your family will love you for it!
Ingredients for Green Pasta
To create this delightful Green Pasta, gather these ingredients:
- 320 g (11.3 oz) penne pasta
- 1 broccoli, sliced into small florets
- 3 handfuls of kale, roughly chopped
- 3 handfuls of spinach
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 large handful of fresh basil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 handfuls of mixed green leaves
How to Make Green Pasta
Making Green Pasta is a straightforward process, and the cooking steps are simple to follow. Here’s how you can prepare this delightful dish in just a few steps.
Boil Water: Begin by bringing a large saucepan filled with salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt enhances the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.
Cook the Pasta: Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook for about 6 minutes. This is a good time to set a timer, as timing is essential for the perfect texture.
Add Broccoli: After 6 minutes, carefully add the sliced broccoli to the saucepan. Continue boiling the pasta and broccoli together for an additional 5 minutes. You’ll want the pasta to reach al dente, which means it should have a slight bite and not be mushy.
Drain the Pasta: Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli, but make sure to reserve about 1.5 cups of the pasta water. This starchy water is essential for making a creamy sauce later.
Prepare the Green Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, take out a food processor. Add the chopped kale, spinach, peeled garlic, walnuts, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, fresh basil, olive oil, and a large pinch of salt and pepper.
Blend: Pour in about 1.5 cups of the reserved pasta water, then blend everything until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If it seems too thick, you can add a little more pasta water to reach your desired texture.
Combine: Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into a large mixing bowl. Pour the green sauce over the pasta and mix well, making sure that every piece is coated with that vibrant sauce.
Add Mixed Greens: Finally, fold in the mixed green leaves for added freshness and texture. This step is essential as it adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Serve Immediately: Once everything is combined, you’re ready to serve your Green Pasta. Enjoy it warm, and feel free to sprinkle additional nutritional yeast or a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor.
How to Serve Green Pasta
Serving Green Pasta is all about presentation and enjoying its vibrant flavors. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- Plating: Use a large bowl or plate to serve the pasta, allowing the colorful greens to stand out. You might consider twirling the pasta with a fork for a fancy touch.
- Garnishes: For added flair, garnish with more fresh basil leaves, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts. These additions not only look great but also enhance the flavor profile.
- Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or grilled vegetables. The freshness complements the green pasta perfectly and turns your meal into a balanced feast.
- Variations: You can also serve the pasta chilled as a pasta salad, making it a refreshing option for a summer gathering.
Expert Tips: Green Pasta
To make your Green Pasta experience even more enjoyable, here are some expert tips that will help you refine your skills and improve the dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of your greens is key. Opt for organic produce when possible to make the most of the flavors and health benefits.
- Don’t Overcook the Greens: When boiling the broccoli, you want it tender but still vibrant. Overcooking can lead to a dull color and lost nutrients.
- Adjust Based on Preferences: Feel free to adjust the levels of garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast according to your taste preferences. This dish is all about what you enjoy!
- Reserve Extra Pasta Water: If you find your sauce too thick, keep some extra pasta water aside as you mix. You can always adjust the consistency as needed.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re preparing for a busy week, consider making the green sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and simply cook fresh pasta and broccoli when you’re ready.
How to Store Green Pasta
Storing leftover Green Pasta is easy, and it retains its delicious flavors well. Here are some tips for proper storage:
- Cool Down: Let the pasta cool down to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation inside your storage container, which can make the pasta soggy.
- Use Airtight Containers: Place the leftover pasta in an airtight container. This keeps the meal fresh for longer.
- Refrigeration: Store your Green Pasta in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3 to 5 days.
- Freezing: If you have more than you can eat within a few days, consider freezing the Green Pasta. It should keep well for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a bit of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Variations of Green Pasta
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless variations of Green Pasta that you can try. Here are a few ideas that might inspire you to mix things up:
- Different Greens: Swap out the kale and spinach for arugula, Swiss chard, or even mustard greens. Each green adds its unique flavor profile to the dish.
- Nuts and Seeds: While walnuts bring a lovely richness to the sauce, you could also experiment with pine nuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for variety.
- Herbal Boosts: Combine different herbs such as parsley or cilantro with the basil for a new burst of flavor. Mixing herbs can change the entire character of your dish.
- Cheesy Option: If you’re a fan of cheese, consider adding some grated parmesan or vegan cheese to the sauce for a creamier consistency.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili for an exciting twist.
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Pasta
What is Green Pasta?
Green Pasta is a nutritious dish made primarily with penne pasta, fresh greens like kale and spinach, and a flavorful green sauce. It’s simple to make and full of health benefits, making it a great choice for any meal.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne pasta is used in this recipe, you can swap it out for any of your favorite types, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options like quinoa or chickpea pasta.
How do I adjust the flavor of the sauce?
If you prefer a more robust flavor, feel free to add more garlic, lemon juice, or nutritional yeast to your sauce. Taste as you go to find the balance that works best for you.
Is Green Pasta suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Green Pasta is fantastic for meal prep. You can make the sauce ahead of time and combine it with fresh pasta and broccoli when you’re ready to eat, which can save you time during busy weekdays.
Green Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 320 g penne pasta
- 1 broccoli, sliced into small florets
- 3 handfuls kale, roughly chopped Can be substituted with other greens.
- 3 handfuls spinach Fresh is recommended for best flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 cup walnuts Choose raw or lightly toasted.
- 1 juice of 1 lemon Fresh lemon juice enhances flavor.
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast Adds a cheesy flavor.
- 1 large handful fresh basil Use fresh basil for better aroma.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin olive oil is preferred.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- 2 handfuls mixed green leaves For added freshness and texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large saucepan filled with salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook for about 6 minutes.
- After 6 minutes, carefully add the sliced broccoli to the saucepan and continue boiling for an additional 5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and broccoli, reserving about 1.5 cups of the pasta water.
Make the Green Sauce
- In a food processor, combine the kale, spinach, garlic, walnuts, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, basil, olive oil, and a large pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour in about 1.5 cups of the reserved pasta water and blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta and broccoli with the green sauce until well coated.
- Fold in the mixed green leaves for added freshness.
- Serve warm and garnish with additional nutritional yeast or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.