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A close-up of a generous serving of Creamy Pesto Pasta With Spinach tossed in a white bowl.

Creamy Pesto Pasta With Spinach


  • Author: recipebychefs.com
  • Total Time: 25 min
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A simple recipe for pasta coated in a rich, creamy pesto sauce with fresh spinach.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Add the pesto mixture to the skillet with the spinach. Stir to combine.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  7. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use store-bought or homemade pesto.
  • For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3
  • Sodium: 650
  • Fat: 35
  • Saturated Fat: 15
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20
  • Trans Fat: 1
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 18
  • Cholesterol: 60

Keywords: pesto pasta, creamy pesto, spinach pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta