High-Protein Green Pasta

Ingredients:
  • 220g whole-grain pasta (e.g. whole-grain rigatoni)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 100g onion, sliced
  • 100g leafy greens (e.g. 70g spinach + 30g rucola)
  • ¼ tsp finely ground sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • 150g silken tofu
  • 1½ tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp hot water

Toppings (optional)

  • Chili flakes
  • (Vegan) parmesan flakes
  • Fresh rucola leaves
  • Toasted pine nuts

 

Prep time 10 min · Cook time 10 min · Total 20 min · Servings 2

This vibrant green pasta is creamy, comforting, and full of brain- and mood-supporting nutrients. Whole-grain pasta gives slow-release energy, while leafy greens pack folate, antioxidants, magnesium, and calcium for a happy nervous system. Silken tofu adds protein for satiety and extra magnesium, nutritional yeast brings B-vitamins, lemon juice brightens and boosts mineral absorption, and olive oil wraps it all up with satisfying, healthy fats.

Method

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the leafy greens and sprinkle with the salt. Cover and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes for spinach and rucola; longer for sturdier greens).
  4. Transfer the cooked onion and greens to a blender. Add the remaining olive oil, tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, pepper, and hot water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning (lemon, salt, pepper) if needed.
  6. Drain the pasta and return it to the pan. Stir through the green sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Serve immediately with desired toppings.

Notes & Tips

  • This recipe is a flexible base—swap greens, vegetables, or herbs such as parsley, dill, or basil. Add nutrient-dense peas or edamame for extra protein and fibre (adjust water ratio accordingly!)
  • Experiment with other sources of plant-based protein to replace tofu, like cooked white beans or even soaked cashews for a similarly creamy, nutrient-dense sauce.

Using calcium-set tofu and fortified nutritional yeast further boosts calcium intake.

Allergens (EU)
Gluten (whole-grain pasta); Soy (tofu).