Name: Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups packed basil; 1/2 cup packed flat leaf Italian parsley; 1 cup green peas (if frozen, thawed); 4 cloves garlic (4 cloves yield ~2 Tbsp); 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (plus more for serving or substitute raw walnuts but omit as garnish); 1 medium lemon, juiced (~2 Tbsp or 30 ml lemon juice); 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese; 1 pinch sea salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 cup olive oil; 10 ounces gluten-free pasta; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, chopped; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup loosely packed arugula (organic when possible)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 61 reviews

If you’re craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors wrapped in a comforting bowl of pasta, you’re going to love this Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe. This dish is a celebration of bright green basil and peas harmonizing with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the peppery zing of arugula, all brought together in a creamy, luscious vegan pesto. It’s naturally gluten-free, wonderfully nutritious, and comes together in just about 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear food processor bowl is filled with layers of fresh ingredients. At the base and left side, there are dark green spinach leaves, some larger and some smaller, overlapping each other. On top of the spinach, near the center and left, there are three whole white garlic cloves. Next to the garlic and towards the bottom center, there are bright green peas scattered in a thick layer. To the upper right side of the peas, there is a pile of pale yellow grated cheese or breadcrumbs. On the right side of the bowl, a small cluster of light brown pine nuts sits on top of the other ingredients. The food processor sits on a wooden surface. The overall image has bright, natural lighting and clear detail, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this recipe is essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The fresh herbs bring that signature pesto aroma, while the sun-dried tomatoes and arugula add vibrant pops of color and flavor.

1 ½ cups packed basil: The star herb delivering fresh, fragrant notes that make any pesto sing.
1/2 cup packed flat leaf Italian parsley: Adds a subtle earthiness and bright green color.
1 cup green peas (thawed if frozen): Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture without overpowering.
4 cloves garlic (about 2 Tbsp): Provides savory depth and a welcoming aroma.
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts: Brings subtle nuttiness and richness to the pesto; walnuts work as a great alternative.
Juice of 1 medium lemon (~2 Tbsp): Delivers refreshing acidity that brightens every bite.
1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese: Gives a cheesy umami kick while keeping it totally plant-based.
Pinch of sea salt (plus more to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
1/4 cup olive oil: Creates that silky, luscious texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
10 ounces gluten-free pasta: The perfect gluten-free base to hold all those delightful flavors.
1 Tbsp olive oil: For sautéing garlic and sun-dried tomatoes to infuse more flavor.
2 cloves garlic, chopped: Adds an extra layer of mild garlic goodness in the sauté.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Offers tangy, chewy bursts that contrast wonderfully with the creamy pesto.
1 cup loosely packed arugula (organic if possible): Adds a peppery freshness and a lovely texture to the final dish.

How to Make Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe

A clear plastic food processor bowl with a beige central blade holder is filled with a thick, vibrant green sauce that has a slightly rough texture. The sauce clings to the sides of the bowl, showing uneven splashes, while the bottom layer looks smooth and dense. The processor sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled texture visible in the front part of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Bring Water to a Boil and Prepare Pesto

Start by filling a large saucepan about three-quarters full with water, salt it generously, and get that boiling while you prepare the pesto. This step ensures your pasta cooks perfectly seasoned from the inside out, setting the stage for flavor-packed noodles.

Step 2: Blend the Pesto Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the basil, parsley, peas, garlic, toasted pine nuts, lemon juice, vegan parmesan, and a pinch of sea salt. Pulse these vibrant ingredients while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until the mixture becomes creamy and luscious. You might need to scrape down the sides or add a splash more olive oil or water if blending gets tricky—don’t worry, it’s all about that perfect consistency.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust Your Pesto

This is your moment to personalize the pesto. Does it need more brightness? A splash of lemon juice will do the trick. Want cheesier depth? Add a little more vegan parmesan. Or maybe a pinch more salt to awaken the flavors. The best pesto is one that tastes just right to your palate.

Step 4: Cook the Gluten-Free Pasta

Once your water is rolling, add the gluten-free pasta and cook following the package instructions, aiming for ‘al dente’—tender, but with a little bite. Drain the pasta and return it to the pan off the heat to keep warm without overcooking.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Heat a large saucepan or sturdy skillet on medium, then add the olive oil, chopped garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Give it a gentle sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic releases its fragrance without browning too much. This step infuses the oil with flavor that will then coat your pasta beautifully.

Step 6: Toss Pasta in Sun-Dried Tomato Mixture

Remove the pan from heat, add your cooked pasta, and toss to combine with the olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. This step ensures every strand of pasta gets coated in that flavorful oil base before introducing the pesto.

Step 7: Mix in Pea Pesto and Arugula

Transfer the pasta to a large bowl or serving platter, add about three-quarters of the pea pesto, and the arugula. Toss everything together until evenly coated. The arugula adds lovely peppery notes and a fresh, crisp texture just before serving.

Step 8: Final Garnishes and Serving

Serve your creation warm with the remaining pea pesto on the side. Garnish generously with extra parsley, pine nuts, and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan to elevate both the look and flavor. This pasta not only tastes incredible but looks as inviting as a special occasion dish.

How to Serve Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe

Garnishes

To make your dish even more exciting, top with a handful of extra toasted pine nuts for crunch, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for silkiness, and fresh basil or parsley leaves to lift the herbaceous notes. These simple touches add texture and freshness that guests will appreciate.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp mixed green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal light and vibrant. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes also complement the dish by adding warm, caramelized flavors that balance the cool, herby pesto.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe family-style in a large, colorful serving bowl with extra pesto and garnishes on the side. Alternatively, plate individual servings and add a lemon wedge for a bright finishing touch. This dish also shines cold as a pasta salad, making it versatile for picnics or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 2 to 3 days. The fresh flavors will mellow a bit, but the dish remains delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it a convenient option for next-day meals.

Freezing

While this recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze the pesto separately in ice cube trays for future use. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag and thaw as needed. We recommend freezing the pasta cooked fresh each time for optimal texture and taste.

Reheating

When reheating, do it gently over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently and adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it starts to dry out. Avoid high heat to preserve the vibrant flavor and prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for this Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh peas add a wonderful sweetness and texture. Just blanch them briefly to keep their bright green color and tender-crisp feel before blending into the pesto.

What substitutes work for pine nuts in this recipe?

Walnuts or almonds are excellent alternatives that provide similar creamy richness. Just keep in mind that when using walnuts, it’s best to omit them as a garnish since they can be more bitter than pine nuts.

Is it necessary to use vegan parmesan cheese?

While vegan parmesan adds authentic cheesy flavor, you can skip it or substitute with nutritional yeast for a slightly different but still delicious taste. It’s all about tailoring the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs.

Can I prepare the pea pesto ahead of time?

You sure can! Make the pesto up to two days in advance and store it tightly covered in the fridge. Give it a quick stir and add a touch more olive oil before tossing with pasta to freshen it up.

What gluten-free pasta do you recommend for this recipe?

Look for pasta made from brown rice, corn, or quinoa blends that hold their shape well and don’t turn mushy. Brands with a firm ‘al dente’ texture will work best to carry the delicious pea pesto coating.

Final Thoughts

This Pea Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Arugula (Vegan + GF) Recipe is the perfect dish to bring a bright burst of freshness and comfort to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this vibrant meal is guaranteed to satisfy and impress. Give it a try and enjoy every bite of this wonderful plant-based, gluten-free delight!