Spinach pesto pasta with peas

A vibrant, fiber-rich pasta with spinach, peas, and flavorful pesto

Beginner Friendly Colorful Plants Easy Recipe
79%

General Gut Health Match

This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.

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Recipe description

This spinach pesto pasta with peas is a simple, satisfying way to add more plant variety to your plate. Spinach and peas contribute fiber that supports normal digestion and helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while pesto adds fresh, savory flavor. Easy to prepare and suitable for everyday meals, this pasta fits a balanced eating pattern focused on colorful plants and enjoyable, nourishing food. Serve it warm for a comforting lunch or dinner that makes gut-friendly eating feel effortless.

October 4, 2026
Spinach pesto pasta with peas
Prep 10 min Cook 15 min Medium

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Why this recipe fits you

  • Provides fiber from peas, spinach, and pasta.
  • Includes several colorful plant foods, garlic, and olive oil.
  • A practical, satisfying meal with moderate protein and healthy fats.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
68
🍇 Polyphenol density
72
🧬 Diversity support
66
🛡️ Inflammation support
73
🫧 Fermentation support
10
⚖️ Blood sugar stability
61

Ingredients

Pasta
2 cup
Pasta
Spinach
6 tablespoon
Spinach
Pea, green
4 tablespoon
Pea, green
Pesto, green
3 tablespoon
Pesto, green
Garlic
2 clove
Garlic
Oil, olive
1 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Cheese, parmesan
3 tablespoon
Cheese, parmesan
Salt
0.5 teaspoon
Salt
Black pepper
0.25 teaspoon
Black pepper

Instructions

1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2

During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the green peas to the pasta pot so they cook together with the pasta.

3

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

4

Add the spinach to the pan and stir until it wilts, about 2 minutes.

5

Reserve a small cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and peas.

6

Add the drained pasta, peas, and green pesto to the pan with the spinach. Toss well, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a glossy sauce.

7

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

8

Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

600 kcal Calories
20 g Protein
82 g Carbohydrates
8 g Fiber
5 g Sugar
23 g Fat
5 g Saturated fat
1.6 g Salt

FAQ

How many servings does this spinach pesto pasta make?
The recipe makes 2 servings.
How do I keep the pasta sauce glossy?
Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining, then add a splash while tossing the pasta with the pesto.
When should I add the peas?
Add the peas to the pasta pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Can I use frozen peas?
Yes. Add frozen peas during the final 2 minutes; no thawing is needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
It is vegetarian as written, but check that the pesto and Parmesan you use are suitable for your dietary needs.
How can I make this pasta vegan?
Use vegan pesto and replace the Parmesan with a plant-based alternative or leave it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use certified gluten-free pasta and check the pesto and other packaged ingredients for gluten-containing ingredients.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and use them within 2 to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.
Does this recipe contain common allergens?
It may contain milk from the Parmesan and pesto, and pesto may contain nuts. Pasta may contain wheat, so check product labels.

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