Delicious Spaghetti Verde is a fresh and tasty pasta dish that shines with vibrant green flavors. It’s made with tender spaghetti and a mix of greens like spinach and basil!
It’s so quick to whip up, perfect for a busy weeknight. I always add a sprinkle of cheese on top because who doesn’t love a little cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works great here, but you can swap it with whole-grain, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles if you want a lighter option. Zoodles are fun and give a nice crunch!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a mild flavor and vibrant color. If you don’t have fresh spinach, frozen spinach works too—just thaw and drain well. I like to mix in some kale for extra nutrients.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor! If it’s out of season, dried basil can be used, but fresh is always best. You can also substitute with parsley or arugula for a different twist.
Pine Nuts or Walnuts: These add a nice creaminess to the pesto. If you’re on a budget or have nut allergies, sunflower seeds work well too. Toasted sesame seeds can add a unique flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste, but you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Do You Make Sure the Pesto Sauce is Smooth?
Getting a smooth pesto can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Start by pulsing the greens with garlic and nuts first. This helps break them down before adding the oil.
- When drizzling in the olive oil, pour slowly while the processor is running. It helps emulsify the oil with the greens.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water slowly to loosen it up. This also helps it cling better to the spaghetti!
Delicious Spaghetti Verde
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- 1 fresh jalapeño, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 12 minutes to cook the spaghetti. In total, you’ll need around 22 minutes to enjoy a delicious, vibrant plate of Spaghetti Verde!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It’s important to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps in making the sauce creamy!
2. Blend the Verde Sauce:
As the spaghetti cooks, grab your food processor or blender. Add in the fresh spinach, basil, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Pulse the mixture a few times to combine the ingredients.
3. Add the Olive Oil:
With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Keep blending until you have a smooth and creamy pesto sauce. Don’t forget to taste the sauce and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference!
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the verde sauce over the hot spaghetti and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Plate and Garnish:
Serve the Spaghetti Verde onto plates, and for extra flair, garnish with fresh jalapeño slices, cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice!
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor your vibrant, fresh, and flavorful Delicious Spaghetti Verde! Don’t forget to have some extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want even more cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti adds a nice nutty flavor and is a healthier option, while gluten-free pasta works just as well for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Spaghetti Verde?
To store leftovers, place the spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil to restore some moisture before serving.
Can I Make the Pesto Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the verde sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If the sauce darkens, just mix it well before tossing it with pasta.
What Can I Use Instead of Pine Nuts?
If you’re out of pine nuts, feel free to substitute with walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even pistachios! Each will add a slightly different flavor, but all make for a delicious pesto.
