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Cheesy Spinach Pasta Sauce Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

Cheesy Spinach Pasta Sauce is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious sauce made with fresh spinach, basil, peas, and parmesan cheese. This vibrant green sauce is quick to prepare, blending wholesome veggies into a smooth, rich topping perfect for pasta. Ideal for toddlers and picky eaters alike, it offers a delicious way to sneak in superfoods while keeping mealtime easy and tasty.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

  • 2–3 handfuls fresh spinach
  • Bunch fresh basil (7-8 leaves)
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ½ cup peas (optional)

Dairy & Oils

  • ⅓ cup parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup non-dairy milk
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

Seasonings

  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt (optional for babies)
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Blend Sauce Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine spinach, basil leaves, parmesan cheese, parsley, non-dairy milk, garlic cloves, avocado or olive oil, onion powder, salt (if using), and ground black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Simmer Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a large skillet set over medium heat. Allow it to gently simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, add optional sweet peas to incorporate them and let the flavors meld together while the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, thin it out by adding a bit more non-dairy milk. If too thin, continue simmering a few more minutes until it reaches the desired thickness.
  5. Serve: Once you achieve the perfect consistency, pour the sauce over the cooked pasta. Toss well to ensure every strand or piece is coated with the cheesy spinach goodness.
  6. Store Leftovers: Allow any leftover sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze in portioned cubes for 2-3 months.

Notes

  • Kid-friendly pasta shapes include rotini, fusilli, spaghetti, ditalini, star pasta, and alphabet pasta.
  • To make this sauce vegan, substitute parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Use gluten-free pasta options like brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta for gluten-free dietary needs.
  • Boost protein by blending in cottage cheese, cooked chickpeas, white beans, tofu, or adding cooked chicken pieces.
  • Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper gradually, as the cheese adds natural saltiness.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/cheesy-spinach-pasta-sauce-recipe/