Name: 10-Minute Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 oz fresh spinach; Large handful fresh basil; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 cup coconut milk; 3 tbsp nutritional yeast; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 7 oz pasta of choice

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This 10-Minute Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta Sauce is one of my favorite quick and wholesome meals. I blend fresh spinach, fragrant basil, garlic, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast into a silky, vibrant sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. It’s a simple plant-based dinner that comes together in minutes while delivering fresh flavor and satisfying creaminess.

10-Minute Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta Sauce

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 oz fresh spinach

Large handful fresh basil

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tablespoon lemon juice

1 cup coconut milk

3 tablespoon nutritional yeast

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

7 oz pasta of choice

Directions

I add the spinach, basil, garlic, lemon juice, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper to a blender.

I blend everything on high speed for about 30 seconds until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

I transfer the sauce to a large skillet and heat it over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened.

I cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain it well.

I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is evenly coated with the spinach sauce.

I serve it immediately with extra basil, chili flakes, or vegan parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Calories: 348 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes add avocado to the blender for an even creamier texture.

I like stirring in sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.

I occasionally use kale instead of spinach for a slightly earthier flavor.

I enjoy adding roasted broccoli or peas to increase the vegetable content.

I sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added crunch.

I use gluten-free pasta when I want a gluten-free meal.

I add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the sauce a gentle kick.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I reheat it, I add a splash of water, plant milk, or coconut milk to loosen the sauce and maintain its creamy consistency. I warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each interval. I do not recommend freezing the fully mixed pasta because the texture of the sauce may change after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, I can use frozen spinach if that is what I have available. I thaw and drain it thoroughly before blending to prevent excess water from thinning the sauce.

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

I find that spaghetti, linguine, fettuccine, penne, and fusilli all work well. The creamy sauce coats both long and short pasta varieties nicely.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I simply reheat it gently before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta.

Is the coconut flavor strong in this recipe?

I find that the basil, garlic, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast balance the coconut milk well. The result is creamy rather than overwhelmingly coconut-flavored.

How can I add more protein to this meal?

I like adding chickpeas, white beans, lentils, tofu, or a plant-based chicken alternative to make the dish more filling and protein-rich.

Conclusion

I love how this 10-Minute Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta Sauce transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. The fresh herbs, creamy texture, and vibrant color make it feel special despite requiring very little effort. Whenever I need a quick plant-based dinner, this recipe is one of my favorite choices because it is nutritious, delicious, and ready in just 10 minutes.

📖 Recipe:

10-Minute Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta Sauce

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A quick and creamy vegan spinach pasta sauce made with fresh spinach, basil, coconut milk, and nutritional yeast. This vibrant plant-based dinner comes together in just 10 minutes and coats pasta beautifully.

Instructions

Add the spinach, basil, garlic, lemon juice, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper to a blender.
Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.
Transfer the sauce to a large skillet and heat over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain well.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.
Serve immediately with extra basil, chili flakes, or vegan parmesan if desired.