Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of choice; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup sunflower seeds; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/4 cup nutritional yeast; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Clean Eating

Enjoy a delightful twist on pasta with this creamy spinach sunflower recipe that is both nourishing and satisfying.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-30T15:22:28.013Z

This creamy spinach sunflower pasta is a perfect dish for weeknights or special occasions. The combination of spinach and sunflower seeds creates a rich sauce that's both flavorful and nutritious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce made from wholesome ingredients
Packed with nutrients from spinach and sunflower seeds
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Nutrient Powerhouse

This Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta is not just a delicious meal; it's a nutrient-dense powerhouse! Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for boosting your immune system and overall health. Sunflower seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium, and selenium. Together, these ingredients create a dish that nourishes your body while satisfying your cravings.

Not only does this recipe prioritize nutrition, but it also allows you to enjoy a delightful blend of flavors. The creamy sauce, derived from the sunflower seeds and vegetable broth, adds a rich texture that perfectly complements the pasta. You’ll find that every bite offers a balance of creaminess and freshness from the spinach, making it a truly satisfying meal.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

In today's fast-paced world, having quick and easy dinner recipes at your fingertips is essential. This Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious, wholesome meal without the stress of lengthy cooking times.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or even a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. This adaptability ensures that you never get bored with your meals, making it a go-to recipe for the whole family.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to streamline your weekly meal planning, this Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta is an excellent option. It stores well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep. You can double the recipe and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat and serve for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

To make meal prep even easier, consider separating the pasta and sauce before storing them. This way, you can mix them together fresh when you're ready to eat. You can also freeze the sauce for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy this creamy delight whenever you need a delicious, healthful meal in a pinch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious pasta dish.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of choice
2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to cook!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your creamy spinach sunflower pasta.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a blender, combine spinach, sunflower seeds, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In the same pot used for the pasta, return the drained pasta and pour the creamy sauce over it. Mix well to combine, adding salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the creamy spinach sunflower pasta warm, garnished with additional sunflower seeds if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy pasta dish!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. The contrast of textures and flavors will enhance your dining experience and provide even more nutrients.

For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, topping the pasta with extra sunflower seeds or even some toasted pine nuts can add a delightful texture. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be used as a garnish, providing a burst of color and freshness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Storage Tips

Storing your Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta is simple and will help you maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to help restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken when stored.

If you want to keep your pasta fresh for a longer period, consider freezing the sauce separately. The creamy sauce can be frozen in individual portions, allowing you to pull it out and enjoy it with freshly cooked pasta whenever you desire. Just remember to label your containers with the date for easy tracking!

Variations to Try

One of the great aspects of this Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta for a protein boost. You can also try adding various vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus to the mix, creating a rainbow of colors and flavors in your dish.

For an even creamier experience, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream to the sauce. This variation will introduce a delightful richness and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of garlic and sunflower seeds. The options are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zoodles.

→ Can I make this dish nut-free?

Absolutely! You can replace sunflower seeds with pumpkin seeds or omit them entirely.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.