Go Back
–+ servings
High protein rotini vegan pesto pasta with white beans and fresh parsley.

High-Protein Vegan Pesto Pasta with White Beans

A fresh basil pesto pasta tossed with protein-rich white beans for an easy 25-minute vegan dinner.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save
Author Kori Butler
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Dish Recipes
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 604 kcal

Ingredients
 
 

  • 12 ounces high-protein pasta (like chickpea or lentil pasta)
  • 15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Flexitarian option: 8–10 ounces of grilled/cooked chicken, shrimp, or salmon.

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
  • In a food processor, blend basil, nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon, and olive oil into pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Toss pasta with pesto, beans, and pasta water as needed for creaminess. Serve immediately.

Video

Kori's Tips

For more helpful hints, substitution ideas, cooking tips, and other delicious recipes check out my post above.
FLEXITARIAN: For a protein boost, add 8–10 ounces of grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon. Toss it in just before serving so it stays tender and flavorful. 
TIPS: Save time by using canned beans, but rinse them well for the best flavor. If you like a looser pesto, drizzle in extra olive oil or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Leftover pesto keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge and makes an excellent sandwich spread or drizzle for roasted veggies.
VARIATIONS: Swap the basil for arugula or spinach for a peppery twist. Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra vegetables. Try sunflower seeds or cashews in place of pine nuts for a budget-friendly swap. Save time by using jarred vegan pesto sauce. 
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Serve with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies.

Nutrition

Calories: 604kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 31gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 320mgPotassium: 207mgFiber: 19gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 642IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 157mgIron: 12mg
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Mention @seekinggoodeatsofficial or tag #seekinggoodeats! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter to receive more healthy delicious recipes straight to your inbox.

© 2025 Seeking Good Eats™