Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta

Name: Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup sunflower seeds; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup coconut milk; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

Enjoy a deliciously creamy and nutritious pasta dish featuring spinach and sunflower seeds.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-29T19:42:28.070Z

This Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the fresh flavors of spinach with the nutty goodness of sunflower seeds. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe is both healthy and indulgent.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Nutty flavor from sunflower seeds adds a unique twist
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Spinach is a superfood loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium. Adding fresh spinach to your pasta not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the dish's nutritional profile, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals.

Sunflower seeds, another key ingredient, are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. These seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress in the body. Incorporating sunflower seeds into your meals can contribute to improved heart health and better immune function.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or a casual gathering with friends, this creamy pasta dish is sure to impress. Its rich, satisfying taste makes it a delightful option for special occasions or simply a comforting weeknight meal. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread, elevating the dining experience.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences. You can easily add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for added protein or throw in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for any time of year.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, ensure that you blend the ingredients thoroughly until smooth. If the mixture appears too thick, feel free to add a little more vegetable broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. The goal is to create a creamy texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.

For a touch of extra flavor, consider toasting the sunflower seeds lightly before adding them to the blender. This simple step enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth to the sauce. Additionally, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before combining the sauce with the pasta.

Ingredients

Pasta

300g pasta of your choice (penne or fusilli work well)

Creamy Sauce

2 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Combine all ingredients to create a deliciously creamy sauce.

Instructions

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 the spinach, sunflower seeds, vegetable broth, coconut milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the blended sauce and cooked pasta. Toss until the pasta is well coated and heated through.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with additional sunflower seeds or spinach if desired.

Enjoy your creamy spinach sunflower pasta with a sprinkle of fresh herbs!

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This creamy pasta dish tends to thicken as it cools, so when you're ready to reheat it, add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to loosen the sauce. Heat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Freezing is also an option for this dish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using the stovetop method for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Sunflower Pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich and creamy pasta, creating a balanced meal. You might also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired feast.

For an added layer of flavor, consider garnishing the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a vegan option. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can brighten the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute kale or arugula for spinach if you prefer.

→ Is this recipe nut-free?

Yes, it is nut-free as it uses sunflower seeds instead of nuts.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.