Table of Contents
Looking for a healthy and delicious dinner that comes together quickly? This lentil and spinach pesto pasta is the perfect solution. It combines hearty lentils, fresh spinach, and flavorful pesto for a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients Needed
- 200g whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir for a couple of minutes to warm through. Then, add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the basil pesto, mixing well to coat the lentils and spinach evenly.
Combine the cooked pasta with the lentil and spinach mixture. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. For added flavor, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, providing a balanced meal with protein, greens, and healthy carbs. It’s also easily adaptable—try adding cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.