High Protein Spinach & Pesto Pasta
High Protein · Anti-inflammatory · Meal Prep Friendly
Why this works
✔ Greek yogurt base adds creaminess + 15-20g extra protein without heavy cream
✔ Spinach delivers iron, folate, and anti-inflammatory antioxidants
✔ Whole grain pasta keeps blood sugar stable and adds fiber to keep you full
✔ Pine nuts + parmesan bring healthy fats and a savory depth that holds the dish together
HOW TO MAKE IT:
Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Add spinach, basil, Greek yogurt, parmesan, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to the pesto and blend again. This helps it coat the pasta evenly without clumping.
Toss hot pasta with pesto immediately. The warmth from the pasta loosens the sauce perfectly.
Fold in baby spinach and cherry tomatoes. Add chickpeas or chicken if using.
HOW TO BUILD YOUR PLATE:
Swap pine nuts for walnuts for extra omega-3s and a lower cost
Swap parmesan for nutritional yeast to make it dairy-free (yogurt too: use unsweetened coconut yogurt)
Boost protein more: stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides before tossing with pasta
Add a soft boiled egg on top for another 6g of protein and a yolk-drip moment