If you're looking for a healthy pasta recipe that feels light but tastes indulgent, loading up on fresh greens is the secret. By incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients like baby spinach, you bulk up the sauce and add fiber without disrupting the classic flavor profile. This recipe uses a gentle low-heat method to coax maximum flavor out of your Sturdy Sauce, while lemon zest and fresh herbs cut through the richness for a bright, vibrant finish. It checks every box: high-protein, incredibly flavorful, and perfectly balanced for your fitness goals.
Ingredients
- 1 jar Sturdy Sauce
- 1 cup baby spinach and 2 cups fresh basil
- 150g chickpea or lentil pasta (high in protein; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts
- Zest of half a lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- In a small blender, pulse the spinach, basil, and lemon zest with the reserved pasta water until it forms a vibrant green paste.
- Warm your Sturdy Sauce in a pan over low heat.
- Once the sauce is hot, stir in the green mixture until fully combined.
- Toss with the cooked pasta and top with toasted nuts for a satisfying crunch reminiscent of traditional pesto.