Healthy High-Protein “Pesto-Red” Hybrid
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
- 482 grams482 grams482 grams Sweet Basil Sauce - Sturdy Sauce

- 1 cup1 cup1 cup Baby Spinach
- 2 cups2 cups2 cups Basil, Fresh

- 150 grams150 grams150 grams Chickpeas, Or lentil pasta (high in protein; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining)
- 2 Tbsp2 Tbsp2 Tbsp Pine Nuts, Toasted (or crushed walnuts)

- 0.5 cup0.5 cup0.5 cup Lemon Zest
Buy Ingredients on the FoodSocial Market
Shop over 3500 products from unique and independent, creator-curated brandsProcess
Note, these instructions are written assuming the standard serving size, since you have modified the number of servings, these steps may need to be modified for best results
- 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.
Add a Note
My Notes:
About This Recipe
Show nutritional information
Coconut Free Egg Free Entrées Gluten Free Grain Free Other Shellfish Free Sugar Alcohol Free Sugar Free| This is our estimate based on online research. | |
| Calories: | 1226 |
| Fat: | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates: | 142 g |
| Protein: | 106 g |
| Cholesterol: | 0 g |
| Sodium: | 3282 mg |
| Fiber: | 25 g |
| Sugars: | 39 g |
| Sugar Alcohol: | 0 g |
| Calculated for total recipe. | |




Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.