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Creamy Arugula-Infused Vegan Pesto Spaghetti

Creamy Arugula-Infused Vegan Pesto Spaghetti for Quick Joy

A delightful blend of fresh ingredients that transforms simple pasta into an irresistible dish, this Creamy Arugula-Infused Vegan Pesto Spaghetti is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian, Vegan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Spaghetti or gluten-free pasta
For the Pesto Sauce
  • 1/3 to 1/2 cup Basil Pesto homemade or high-quality store-bought
  • 1/2 cup Starchy Pasta Water reserve before draining
  • 4 cups Arugula can substitute with spinach or kale
  • 2 tablespoons Pine Nuts toasted, can substitute with walnuts or almonds
For Flavor Enhancements
  • 3 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil high-quality for best results
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes adjust for desired spice level
  • to taste Sea Salt
  • to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • optional Freshly Grated Vegan Parmesan nutritional yeast can be an alternative

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Arugula-Infused Vegan Pesto Spaghetti
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Before draining, remember to reserve ½ cup of that starchy pasta water!
  2. In a large skillet set over low heat, pour in the basil pesto along with ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir gently, allowing the mixture to warm through and become smooth.
  3. Once your spaghetti is drained, add it directly to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss the pasta well until every strand is coated.
  4. With the heat still off, add in the fresh lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Gently fold in the arugula until just wilted.
  5. Plate your pasta, garnish with toasted pine nuts, and optionally sprinkle with vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 10gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Store leftover Creamy Arugula-Infused Vegan Pesto Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of pasta water.

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