Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Nutrient-Packed Green Goddess Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 3 reviews

This Nutrient-Packed Green Goddess Pasta combines vibrant kale, fresh spinach, and creamy white beans with aromatic basil and parmesan for a wholesome, flavorful meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect fast and healthy dinner option that integrates fresh greens and protein into a luscious, smooth sauce blended directly with cooked pasta water for ideal texture and taste.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Greens

  • 1 bunch fresh kale (ribs removed)
  • 1 10-oz bag fresh spinach

Protein and Cheese

  • 1 14-oz can white beans (navy, cannellini, great northern, or butter beans)
  • 1 cup grated parmesan (plus extra for serving)

Herbs and Flavorings

  • 1 cup loosely packed basil leaves
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ¼ tsp salt (may need more to taste)

Pasta

  • 1 lb pasta of choice

Instructions

  1. Cook Greens: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh kale, cooking for 5 minutes to soften. Then add the fresh spinach and continue boiling for an additional 2 minutes until all greens are wilted and have a bright green color. Remove the cooked greens using a strainer or slotted spoon, leaving the water in the pot for the pasta.
  2. Cook Pasta: Return the pot of water used for greens to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve a few cups of the starchy pasta water for the sauce.
  3. Blend Sauce: In a blender, combine the cooked greens, about 1 cup of reserved pasta water, white beans, grated parmesan, basil leaves, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and salt. Blend with the lid slightly ajar for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more pasta water a ladle at a time if you desire a thinner consistency. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  4. Toss and Serve: Pour the green goddess sauce over the drained pasta and toss well to coat evenly. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
  • Adjust the salt according to your taste and dietary needs.
  • For a vegan option, substitute parmesan with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
  • Make sure to reserve enough pasta water to achieve a creamy sauce consistency when blending.
  • Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/nutrient-packed-green-goddess-pasta-recipe/