Emily English’s Simple Super Greens Pasta Recipe is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that combines comfort food with wholesome ingredients. This vibrant green pasta is creamy, satisfying, and packed with vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights or healthy meal planning.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
For the Pasta
- 150 g dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- Salt (for pasta water)
For the Super Greens Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 shallot or small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 leek, thinly sliced
- 75 g kale (stems removed)
- 120 g frozen peas
- 1 chicken stock cube (or vegetable stock for vegetarian/halal)
- 75 ml semi-skimmed milk
- 40 g Parmesan cheese, grated (use vegetarian/halal alternative if needed)
- 20 g fresh basil leaves
- Black pepper, to taste
Method
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to packet instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the shallot, garlic, and leek. Cook gently for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant, without browning.
Step 3: Cook the Greens
Add the kale and frozen peas to the pan. Cover with a lid and allow to steam for about 5 minutes, until the kale is wilted and bright green.
Step 4: Blend the Sauce
Transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender. Add the stock cube, milk, Parmesan cheese, basil leaves, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the pasta to the pot and pour over the green sauce. Toss well to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately with extra cheese or basil if desired.
About Emily English’s Simple Super Greens Pasta
Emily English is well known for creating simple, nourishing recipes that are easy to make and suitable for everyday life. Her Simple Super Greens Pasta is a perfect example of her cooking philosophy: food that is comforting, nutritious, and realistic.
This recipe transforms everyday green vegetables into a creamy pasta sauce without relying on heavy cream or butter, making it lighter than traditional pasta dishes while still being incredibly satisfying.
Why This Recipe Is So Popular
Emily English’s Simple Super Greens Pasta has gained popularity for several reasons:
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Packed with hidden vegetables
- Creamy texture without heavy cream
- Easy to adapt for different diets
It’s ideal for people who want to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
What Does Super Greens Pasta Taste Like?
Despite its vibrant green color, this pasta has a mild, comforting flavor. The peas add natural sweetness, kale provides earthiness, and basil brings freshness. Parmesan cheese ties everything together with a savory, umami finish.
The sauce is smooth, creamy, and coats the pasta beautifully, making it appealing even to those who usually avoid green vegetables.
Health Benefits of Super Greens Pasta
Rich in Nutrients
Kale is high in vitamins A, C, and K, while peas provide fiber and plant-based protein. Basil adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Balanced Meal
This dish includes carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein, and vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal.
Lower in Fat Than Traditional Pasta
By using milk and blended vegetables instead of cream, this recipe is lighter while still feeling indulgent.
Supports Digestion
The fiber from vegetables supports gut health and helps keep you full longer.
Is Greens Pasta Healthy?
Yes, this recipe is considered nutritionally balanced. It doesn’t eliminate any food groups and encourages moderation rather than restriction. It’s suitable for active individuals, families, and anyone trying to eat more vegetables in a delicious way.
How to Make It Halal or Vegetarian
Halal Version
- Use halal-certified vegetable or chicken stock
- Replace Parmesan with halal-certified or vegetarian hard cheese
Vegetarian Version
- Swap chicken stock for vegetable stock
- Use vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese
These substitutions maintain the flavor while meeting dietary requirements.
Variations and Add-Ins
Add Protein
- Grilled chicken breast
- Pan-fried tofu
- Chickpeas or white beans
- Grilled salmon or shrimp
Make It Vegan
- Use plant-based milk such as oat or soy
- Replace cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan hard cheese
Extra Vegetables
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Courgette (zucchini)
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Do not overcook the greens to keep the sauce bright green
- Always reserve pasta water—it helps emulsify the sauce
- Blend the sauce while vegetables are still warm
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Storage and Meal Prep
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
- Reheating: Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water
- Freezing: The green sauce can be frozen for up to 1 month
FAQ
Final Thoughts
Emily English’s Simple Super Greens Pasta is a perfect balance of comfort, nutrition, and simplicity. With its creamy green sauce, minimal ingredients, and quick cooking time, it’s a recipe that fits easily into everyday life.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, add more vegetables to your meals, or simply enjoy a delicious pasta dish, this recipe is well worth adding to your regular rotation.
