Spinach Rocket Pesto Pasta

Name: Spinach Rocket Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup rocket (arugula); 1/2 cup walnuts; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; Salt and pepper to taste; 400g spaghetti or your choice of pasta; Salt for the pasta water

Highlighted under: International Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely adore making Spinach Rocket Pesto Pasta because it’s a wonderfully vibrant dish that brings together the fresh flavors of greens and the earthy notes of nuts. This recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen, providing a quick but impressive meal in just 30 minutes. The combination of spinach and rocket creates a zesty pesto that truly enlivens the pasta. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying and nutritious dinner that everyone enjoys.

Created by

The Chefethanfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-03-20T16:06:51.102Z

When I first experimented with making pesto, I was amazed at how simple it was to create a delicious sauce from fresh ingredients. For this Spinach Rocket Pesto, using a mix of spinach and rocket not only gives the sauce a vibrant green color but also infuses it with a unique flavor profile that’s refreshing and bold.

One specific tip I learned is to slightly toast the nuts before blending. This enhances their flavor and adds a lovely depth to the pesto. Serve it mixed through pasta or as a dip with bread, and you’ll be surprised at just how quickly it disappears!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A fresh and vibrant twist on classic pesto
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor

Mastering the Pesto

Creating the pesto is an essential step that significantly impacts the overall flavor profile of your dish. The combination of spinach and rocket provides a lively, slightly peppery essence, which is a delightful twist on traditional basil pesto. When blending, aim for a smooth consistency, but feel free to leave a few small bits of walnuts for added texture. If your pesto seems too thick, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavor while also helping with the consistency.

Be vigilant about seasoning as you blend. The amount of salt may vary based on the salinity of the Parmesan cheese used. I recommend tasting the mixture before you finish, adding salt, and adjusting as needed—a pinch of red pepper flakes can amp up the flavor if you're feeling adventurous!

Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Cooking your pasta al dente is crucial for the best texture and to prevent it from becoming mushy once tossed with the pesto. Generally, this means following the package instructions closely, but check for doneness a minute or two early. The pasta will continue to cook slightly after draining, so err on the side of a firm bite. Additionally, reserving that cup of pasta water is vital; it's starchy and acts as a binding agent, allowing the pesto to adhere better to the pasta.

When boiling your pasta, ensure the water is at a rolling boil with ample salt—about 1-2 tablespoons—before adding the pasta. This elevates the flavors of the noodles and, by extension, the entire dish. As the pasta cooks, keep an eye on it; timing is key, and adjusting to your preference will ensure every bite is simply perfect.

Ingredients

For the Pesto

2 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup rocket (arugula)
1/2 cup walnuts
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

400g spaghetti or your choice of pasta
Salt for the pasta water

Preparation

Instructions

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine the spinach, rocket, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, toss the hot pasta with the pesto, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the pesto before blending. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also brightens the color of the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with other greens if you're looking for a variation. Kale or basil can serve as excellent replacements for the spinach or rocket. Each will impart a unique flavor, keeping your dishes exciting. Additionally, if you’re not keen on walnuts, pine nuts or almonds are fantastic alternatives that will still offer a lovely crunch and nuttiness to the pesto.

For a vegan option, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative, which provides a similar umami flavor without the dairy. You could also consider adding nutritional boosts, like chia seeds or hemp hearts, for an extra layer of nutrition without altering the vibrant taste.

Storing and Serving Tips

This Spinach Rocket Pesto Pasta is perfect for meal prep, and leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be sure to drizzle a little olive oil on top to minimize browning. If you wish to freeze the pesto, consider pouring it into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once frozen, you can transfer the cubes to a resealable bag for long-term storage, easily using portions as needed.

When serving, consider pairing this dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the pesto. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon right before serving adds a refreshing touch that complements the meal beautifully. You could also include grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, turning this vibrant dish into a hearty dinner option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can use pine nuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor profile.

→ How long can I store the pesto?

The pesto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the pesto?

Absolutely! Pesto freezes well. Just store it in ice cube trays and transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag for later use.

→ What dishes can I serve with this pesto?

Apart from pasta, you can use it as a spread on sandwiches, a topping for grilled meats, or a dip for veggies.