Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta

Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is a vibrant, nourishing dish that brings together creamy white beans, fresh spinach, and herbaceous pesto in one comforting bowl. It’s a delicious fusion of plant-based protein, hearty pasta, and bold Italian-inspired flavors—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or satisfying lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is the perfect mix of wholesome and indulgent. It’s easy to throw together in under 30 minutes and packs a serious nutritional punch thanks to fiber-rich white beans and antioxidant-loaded spinach. The pesto ties everything together with a punch of flavor, while the beans offer a creamy texture that makes this dish feel rich without being heavy. It’s vegetarian, protein-packed, and endlessly customizable.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• Canned white beans (like cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• Fresh spinach
• Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the white beans and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in the pesto and mix to coat the beans and spinach.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, if using.
8. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time.

Variations

• Vegan version: Use dairy-free pesto and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
• Add veggies: Sautéed zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms make great additions.
• Make it creamy: Blend half of the beans with a bit of pasta water before adding to create a creamy, saucy base.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti or linguine also work nicely.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and drain it well before adding. Sauté it with the beans as you would fresh spinach.

Is this recipe vegan?

It can easily be made vegan by using plant-based pesto and omitting or replacing the Parmesan cheese.

What kind of white beans should I use?

Cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans are all great options for their creamy texture and mild flavor.

Can I use homemade pesto?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto adds freshness and allows you to control ingredients. Basil, spinach, or arugula pesto all work well.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and the flavors deepen as it sits. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid to refresh.

How do I make this more filling?

Add roasted vegetables, grilled chicken (if not vegetarian), or more beans for added volume and protein.

Is this good cold as a pasta salad?

Yes! It makes a great cold pasta salad. Just chill it and maybe add a bit more pesto or lemon juice before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. While technically freezable, the texture of the pasta and spinach may change after thawing.

What pairs well with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent pairings for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Spinach White Bean Pesto Pasta is a flavorful, wholesome, and fuss-free meal that delivers on both taste and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying vegetarian dinner or a quick meal prep option, this pasta dish checks all the boxes. It’s comforting, versatile, and sure to become a weeknight favorite in your kitchen.

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