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A super-quick pasta with a bold purple twist. This cabbage-based pesto is creamy, comforting and perfect for lazy nights when you want something a little different.

You will need

Serves 4

  • 1/2 red cabbage
  • 1 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 bunch basil leaves, plus extra to garnish (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to season
  • 1 packet spaghetti, pre-cooked to packet instructions

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Directions

5 mins to prep

10 mins to cook

  1. Step 1

    To prepare the purple pesto, start by blanching the red cabbage. Chop the cabbage into small pieces and quickly dunk them into a pot of boiling water. Let them blanch for a short time to remove the raw harshness while preserving the vibrant purple colour. Immediately transfer the cabbage to a bowl of icy cold water to stop the cooking process and lock in the bright hue.

  2. Step 2

    Once the cabbage has cooled, drain it well and transfer it to a blender. Add the pine nuts, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and if using, a generous handful of basil leaves. If you want to keep the pesto purple, you can omit the basil.

  3. Step 3

    Drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil to help the mixture blend smoothly. Blend until you achieve a creamy, rich pesto consistency, adjusting with a little more oil if needed.

  4. Step 4

    In a large mixing bowl, toss the pre-cooked spaghetti with the freshly made purple pesto, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Garnish with extra basil leaves (if using), salt, and a crack of black pepper for added flavour. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Recipe: Catherine Velisha