Pasta Recipe Green – 5 Easy Steps for a Healthy Favorite

Pasta recipe green dishes don’t get easier—or more delicious—than this. Blended with spinach, basil, garlic, and cashews, this creamy sauce turns simple rigatoni into a vibrant, veggie-packed meal. It’s fresh, fast, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just looking to use up those greens in the fridge, this is your new favorite dinner hack.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why This Pasta Recipe Green Deserves a Spot on Your Table

The Greens That Make It Work

This pasta recipe green gets its bold color and fresh flavor from a blend of spinach and basil—two greens that balance nutrition with brightness. Spinach adds volume and richness, while basil layers in that sweet, peppery edge that makes every bite feel gourmet. Together, they create a light but satisfying sauce that clings perfectly to rigatoni or any short pasta you’ve got in the pantry.

These greens aren’t just tasty—they’re full of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. It’s the kind of weeknight recipe that delivers on both comfort and health. And if you’re curious about other ways to work more greens into your meals, this cabbage and carrots recipe is a great next step.

Simple Pantry Staples, Big Flavor

The real magic in this pasta recipe green comes from the smart use of pantry ingredients. Garlic and raw cashews are boiled briefly to mellow the sharpness and soften them for blending. Olive oil brings silkiness, and lemon juice brightens the sauce. Parmesan adds just the right hit of umami to finish it off.

Even better? It all comes together in under 30 minutes with just a pot and a blender—no fussy steps. If you enjoy this kind of simple, satisfying cooking, be sure to browse our easy meals section. And for more healthy inspiration, Best Ever Recipes’ healthy & fresh collection offers ideas that are just as fast and full of flavor.

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Ingredients & Prep Steps for This Pasta Recipe Green

Everything You Need to Make It Creamy and Vibrant

To make this pasta recipe green pop with flavor, you only need a few simple ingredients—most of which you probably already have. The combination of garlic, cashews, spinach, basil, and lemon creates a creamy, dairy-optional sauce that tastes fresh and satisfying.

Below is a full breakdown of ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount
Garlic cloves, peeled	3 cloves
Raw cashews	2 tablespoons
Fresh spinach leaves	3 cups
Fresh basil leaves	½ cup
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Rigatoni pasta	8 ounces
Lemon, juiced	½ lemon
Grated parmesan cheese	¼ cup
Red pepper flakes (optional)	To taste

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Pasta Recipe Green

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the garlic and cashews; boil for 3 minutes to soften.
3. Toss in the spinach and basil. Cook for 30 seconds until just wilted, then transfer to a blender.
4. Let ingredients cool slightly, then add olive oil and blend until creamy and smooth.
5. In the same pot, cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.
6. Return pasta to the pot, pour in the sauce, and stir in the lemon juice. Toss gently over low heat.
7. Add a splash of pasta water to thin if needed. Stir in parmesan and remove from heat.
8. Taste and season as needed. Serve warm, with red pepper flakes on top if desired.

Looking for more pasta creativity? This recipe for anchovy pasta and our seafood squid ink pasta offer rich, bold flavors in a totally different direction.

Why Green Pasta Is So Popular (And Healthy)

What’s the Green Stuff in Pasta, Anyway?

You’ve probably seen vibrant green pasta dishes and wondered—what gives it that color? In most cases, it’s a blend of leafy greens like spinach, basil, or even kale. In this pasta recipe green, we use spinach for its mild taste and basil for that bright, fresh aroma that makes each bite pop.

These ingredients not only add color but nutrients, too. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin K, and fiber, while basil brings antioxidants and a subtle peppery kick. That’s why green pasta has become a go-to option for those looking to balance indulgence with healthy choices.

If you’re already exploring green recipes, our pink salt diet recipe and mint and chocolate ice cream both spotlight creative ways to work greens into everyday meals and desserts.

Is Green Pasta Actually Healthy? Yes—Here’s Why

This green sauce is packed with plant-based goodness. Compared to heavy cream sauces, it’s lighter in fat and full of vitamins. Plus, using cashews for creaminess adds healthy fats and protein without needing dairy. And you control the sodium and portion size, unlike store-bought sauces.

Want to make it even lighter? Swap the pasta for whole wheat or legume-based varieties for added fiber and plant protein. For more naturally healthy meal ideas, browse Best Ever Recipes’ healthy & fresh collection—it’s loaded with better-for-you meals that taste like comfort food.

Many readers who enjoy this pasta recipe green also love my pinon ice cream for dessert—a nutty, protein-rich frozen treat that fits right into balanced eating.

How to Serve Green Pasta Like a Pro

Make It Look as Good as It Tastes

This pasta recipe green is already a stunner with its vibrant color, but plating it with purpose takes it from good to gourmet. Start with a white or neutral bowl to let the green sauce pop. Twirl the pasta high using tongs or a carving fork to create height and restaurant-style drama.

Top it off with a few whole basil leaves, a sprinkle of extra parmesan, and red pepper flakes for contrast. For a heartier finish, add a spoonful of ricotta or soft-boiled egg right on top. The creamy center will melt into the sauce—pure magic.

Want visual inspiration? Check out our cooking style category for ideas on modern plating and flavor combos that work every time.

What Goes Well With Green Pasta?

This creamy green pasta pairs perfectly with roasted veggies, garlic bread, or a light arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. For a sweet finish, follow it up with something refreshing—like our gingerbread ice cream or a scoop of mint and chocolate ice cream to stay on theme.

Looking for more dishes that balance color and health? Explore Best Ever Recipes’ sweet treats for simple desserts that round out your meal beautifully.

Whether you’re serving dinner for two or prepping lunchboxes for the week, a little extra attention turns this pasta recipe green into a standout dish worth savoring.

FAQ – Pasta Recipe Green