Name: Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3/4 pound fusilli pasta; 3/4 pound bow tie pasta (farfalle); 1/4 cup good olive oil; 1 1/2 cups pesto, packaged or homemade; 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and squeezed dry; 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 1/4 cups good mayonnaise; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 1/2 cups frozen peas, defrosted; 1/3 cup pignolis (pine nuts); 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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If you're looking for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying pasta salad that bursts with flavor and texture, the Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy pesto mingles with tender pasta, bright peas, and the subtle crunch of pine nuts, all brought together by a hint of lemon and Parmesan for an unforgettable dish that’s equally perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a simple, special weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up of four small containers with ingredients placed on a white marbled surface. The largest container at the front is a clear glass bowl filled with bright green frozen peas, each covered with a thin layer of frost. Behind it to the left is a glass jar filled with chunky green pesto sauce with a spoon inside. To the right of the jar is a small silver metal cup holding creamy off-white pine nuts. At the front right is a tiny clear glass bowl containing white salt and black pepper, side by side. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that combine to create an irresistible harmony of flavors and colors. Every element is thoughtfully chosen to balance creaminess, brightness, and a delightful crunch that makes this pasta salad shine.

¾ pound fusilli pasta: The corkscrew shape holds onto the pesto beautifully, so each bite is packed with flavor.

¾ pound bow tie pasta: Adds a playful texture contrast and visually complements the fusilli.
¼ cup good olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps the pesto coat the pasta evenly.
1 ½ cups pesto (packaged or homemade): The heart of the dish, providing vibrant herbaceous flavor with a garlicky, nutty punch.

1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and squeezed dry: Brings fresh greenery and a subtle earthy layer without overpowering the dish.
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty lift that balances the rich pesto and mayonnaise.
1 ¼ cups good mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy coating that unifies all the flavors beautifully.

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan: Brings savory depth and a salty finish to the salad.
1 ½ cups frozen peas, defrosted: Adds pops of sweetness and a fresh contrast in texture.
⅓ cup pignolis (pine nuts): Toasty, buttery crunch that takes this salad to the next level.

¾ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a mild, warming spice for balance.

How to Make Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the fusilli and bow tie pasta separately in large pots of boiling salted water. This ensures both pasta shapes cook evenly without sticking together, preserving their unique textures. Cook each for 10 to 12 minutes until just al dente—tender but with a little bite. Drain both well and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Pesto Mixture

In a food processor fitted with a steel blade, combine the pesto, defrosted and well-squeezed spinach, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Puree these together until smooth and vibrant green, revealing a luscious base full of herbaceous depth and freshness.

Step 3: Add Mayonnaise and Create the Dressing

Next, add the mayonnaise to the food processor with the spinach pesto mixture and puree again until perfectly blended. This results in a creamy, tangy dressing that coats every piece of pasta with luscious flavor, while keeping the dish light and fresh.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto-mayonnaise dressing, making sure every twist and fold is saturated in green goodness. The combination of fusilli and bow ties creates an irresistible texture that complements the silky dressing beautifully.

Step 5: Add Parmesan, Peas, Pine Nuts, and Season

Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, defrosted peas, and pine nuts for that hit of salty, sweet, and crunchy elements. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix gently, but thoroughly, so every bite delivers layers of vibrant flavors and textures.

How to Serve Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe

A white bowl is filled with bowtie pasta coated in a green creamy sauce with visible leafy bits, forming the bottom layer. On top of the pasta, there is a heap of bright green frozen peas, slightly frosty in appearance. Above the peas, a small mound of finely grated white cheese adds a soft texture. The very top layer shows a sprinkling of light brown pine nuts. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a wooden spoon partially visible on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional toasted pine nuts and a light shaving of Parmesan on top just before serving for extra crunch and savory appeal. Fresh basil leaves also add a lovely aromatic touch and a pop of color that invites you in.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. It also serves as a delightful companion to lighter proteins like baked chicken or fish, making it a flexible addition to any menu.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the salad in a large glass bowl to showcase its vibrant greens and colorful peas. Individual portions in small jars or bowls make it perfect for picnics or lunchboxes, and garnishing each with a sprig of fresh herb adds an inviting touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as they meld, making leftovers even more enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

Due to the mayonnaise and delicate texture of the pasta and peas, freezing this salad is not recommended, as it can cause separation and a mushy texture upon thawing.

Reheating

This pasta salad shines best served at room temperature or chilled. If you prefer a slight warmth, gently toss it in a bowl left at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving to maintain the fresh texture and flavor integrity.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! If you prefer a fresher taste and texture, use fresh spinach. Just be sure to wilt it slightly in a pan or blanch it briefly before squeezing out the excess moisture, so it blends smoothly into the pesto mixture.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan version or creamy avocado and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The salad remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make the pesto from scratch?

Definitely! Fresh homemade pesto adds a bright and authentic flavor, especially if you use fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, and Parmesan. But quality store-bought pesto works perfectly well, too, especially when you’re short on time.

How can I toast the pine nuts?

Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir the pine nuts frequently for about 3 to 5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Watch carefully as they can burn quickly. This step brings out their buttery flavor and adds a wonderful crunch to the salad.

Can I substitute the peas with another vegetable?

Yes, sugar snap peas, edamame, or even finely chopped asparagus make excellent substitutes, adding their own unique burst of color and texture while maintaining the salad’s fresh vibe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe a try soon—it's one of those dishes that feels both special and effortless. Perfect for sunshine-filled lunches or as a vibrant side, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite for anyone who loves a fresh, flavorful pasta salad packed with wholesome ingredients and delightful textures.

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Spinach Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas and Pine Nuts Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need