Name: One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 250g pasta of choice; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 150g cherry tomatoes, halved; 100g spinach; 250ml plant-based milk (e.g. oat or soy); 3 tbsp vegan pesto; 2 tbsp nutritional yeast; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love One Pot Creamy Pesto PastaRecipe

This recipe is:
• Minimal cleanup with just one pan to wash
• Ready in about 25 minutes
• Packed with bright, fresh pesto flavor and creamy texture
• Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or protein
• Perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
250 g tagliatelle or fettuccine
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
A handful of fresh basil leaves
3–4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
4 tbsp green pesto
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup oat cream or other plant cream
1 cup vegetable stock
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: chili flakes or vegan parmesan for topping

Directions

Layer ingredients: Place the pasta nests in the center of a wide pan. Arrange the cherry tomatoes on one side and the spinach with basil on the other. Scatter the sliced garlic on top.
Season and flavor: Spoon the pesto over the pasta and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
Add liquids: Pour in the oat cream and vegetable stock so the pasta is mostly covered.
Cook covered: Cover with a lid and cook over medium heat for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If needed, add a little more stock during cooking.
Finish the sauce: Once the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir everything together until the pesto, cream, and tomato juices form a silky sauce.
Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot with a sprinkle of chili flakes or vegan parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 19 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of oat milk or vegetable broth to revive the creamy sauce. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best?

Any long pasta like tagliatelle, fettuccine, linguine, or even penne or fusilli will work. Adjust liquid levels if using thicker shapes.

Can I use a different cream substitute?

Yes — soy cream, coconut cream, or blended cashew cream all make great alternatives to oat cream.

Is this recipe gluten‑free?

To make it gluten‑free, use your favorite gluten‑free pasta.

How can I add protein?

Add baked tofu, roasted chickpeas, tempeh, or cooked lentils to boost protein content.

Can I make this oil‑free?

Yes — if your pesto is oil‑free and you skip any added oil, the dish will still be tasty.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir occasionally and ensure there’s enough liquid covering the pasta while it cooks.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but cooking is best done just before serving for optimal texture.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is possible, but the sauce may change texture slightly. Thaw in the fridge and reheat with extra broth or plant milk.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is mild by default; adjust chili flakes to taste for more heat.

Conclusion

This One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta delivers lush, comforting flavor with minimal fuss. With a creamy pesto sauce, fresh vegetables, and a single‑pan cooking method, it’s a reliable go‑to for satisfying meals any night of the week.

One Pot Creamy Pesto Pasta

Why You’ll Love One Pot Creamy Pesto PastaRecipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating