Heart-Healthy Bowtie Pasta with Pesto Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Heart-Healthy Bowtie Pasta with Pesto Sauce, a wholesome twist on a classic favorite that's packed with nutrients and bursting with freshness. This dish features tender whole wheat bowtie pasta tossed in a creamy, dairy-free pesto made with fresh basil, heart-friendly walnuts, and a hint of zesty lemon juice. Nutritional yeast takes the place of cheese, adding a savory, guilt-free touch, while juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp baby spinach bring a refreshing pop of color and flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a light, satisfying meal. Serve it as is or pair it with your favorite protein for a customizable, plant-powered feast that’s as delicious as it is nutritious.
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces Whole wheat bowtie pasta
- 2 cups Fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 cups Walnuts
- 2 large Garlic cloves
- 0.5 cups Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 0.25 cups Nutritional yeast
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper
- 1 cups Cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups Baby spinach
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the whole wheat bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, or until al dente. This typically takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto sauce. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, walnuts, garlic cloves, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3
Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and set them aside.
Step 5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, prepared pesto sauce, sliced cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach.
Step 6
Toss everything gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce and the ingredients are well distributed.
Step 7
Serve immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil or walnuts if desired. Enjoy your heart-healthy bowtie pasta!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (810.8g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2639.3 |
| Total Fat 160.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 21.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 28.3g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1259.4mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 277.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 30.4g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 13.0g | |
| Protein 60.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 276.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 18.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1762.2mg | 0% |
Source of Calories