Ingredients
Fresh Herbs and Greens
- 2-3 handfuls fresh spinach
- Bunch fresh basil, about 7-8 leaves
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
Dairy and Liquids
- ¾ cup non-dairy milk
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
Optional Vegetables
- ½ cup peas (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Blend the Sauce Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the fresh spinach, basil leaves, parsley, parmesan cheese, non-dairy milk, garlic cloves, avocado or olive oil, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a large skillet set over medium heat. Let it gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce. At this point, stir in optional peas if using.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more non-dairy milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, continue simmering for a few additional minutes until your desired consistency is achieved.
- Combine and Serve: Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
- Store Leftovers: Cool any leftover sauce completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze in portioned containers like Souper Cubes for 2-3 months.
Notes
- Kid-friendly pasta options include rotini, fusilli, spaghetti, ditalini, star pasta, or alphabet pasta.
- To make the sauce vegan, substitute parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
- For a gluten-free meal, pair the sauce with gluten-free pasta such as brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta.
- Boost protein content by adding cottage cheese, cooked chickpeas, white beans, tofu, or bits of cooked chicken to the sauce.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper gradually, bearing in mind the parmesan cheese contributes saltiness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
