Pesto Pasta With Corn and Green Beans (Easy & Healthy 25-Minute Recipe)

For those who love pasta, today I have another amazing pasta recipe that is super easy to make and super delicious. It’s a quick, wholesome, and flavor-packed meal that screams summer freshness. This Pesto Pasta With Corn and Green Beans is your perfect go-to for a healthy vegetarian dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. This 25-minute pasta recipe is also perfect for a busy weeknight meal or healthy lunches.

Made with simple, affordable ingredients like whole wheat pasta, vibrant green beans, sweet corn, and a zesty basil pesto, this dish offers a perfect balance of fiber-rich carbs, heart-healthy fats, and plant-powered nutrients. Also, it’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and easily customizable for vegan or gluten-free diets, making it a must-add to your easy weeknight dinner recipes collection.

This one-pot vegetarian pasta is not just nutritious, it’s also a fantastic way to eat clean without sacrificing taste. Ideal for those looking for low-fat meals, meal prep ideas, or quick dinners under 30 minutes, this dish checks all the right boxes—health, taste, simplicity, and seasonal goodness.

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About This Pesto Pasta with Corn and Green Beans

This vibrant and healthy vegetarian pasta is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a flavorful, nutrient-packed solution for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and summer meal prep.

⏱️ Ready in 25 Minutes

Perfect for busy weeknights and quick healthy meals. Minimal prep, no fuss, and ready in under 30 minutes.

🌱 Vegetarian & Nutrient-Rich

Loaded with fiber-rich veggies and heart-healthy olive oil. A delicious meatless meal option high in vitamins & antioxidants.

🍽️ Perfect for Meal Prep

This easy pasta recipe stores well and tastes even better the next day—ideal for healthy lunchbox ideas or batch cooking.

💸 Budget-Friendly & Flexible

Made with pantry staples and affordable vegetables—great for budget-conscious families and student meal plans.

🔥 Low-Calorie Comfort Food

Enjoy rich, creamy pesto flavor with fewer calories—perfect for low fat dinner recipes and weight-loss meal plans.

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📝 Ingredients for Pesto Pasta with Corn and Green Beans

This healthy vegetarian pasta recipe is made with clean, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and perfect for a budget-friendly, one-pot meal.

🍝 Pasta Base

• 8 oz Whole Wheat Pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli) — high in fiber, low GI, heart-healthy carbs
• Salted Water for boiling pasta
• 1/4 cup Reserved Pasta Water — helps blend pesto into a creamy sauce

🌽 Veggies & Flavor

• 1 cup Green Beans – trimmed & cut in half, rich in fiber and antioxidants
• 1 cup Sweet Corn Kernels – fresh or frozen, adds natural sweetness
• 1/2 cup Basil Pesto – store-bought or homemade pesto recipe
• 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil – high in monounsaturated fats, supports clean eating

🧀 Optional Add-ins

• 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese – for added umami flavor
• Zest of 1/2 Lemon – for a fresh, zesty twist
• Red Pepper Flakes – optional heat for spice lovers
• Toasted Pine Nuts – for extra crunch and protein

🌿 Seasonings

• Salt – to taste
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – to taste
• Fresh Basil Leaves – garnish & boost presentation

For a gluten-free pasta recipe, simply swap in quinoa pasta or chickpea pasta for a high-protein, gluten-free dinner that’s perfect for meal prep and healthy living.

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🍳 How to Make Pesto Pasta With Corn and Green Beans

This quick vegetarian pasta recipe is perfect for a healthy dinner under 30 minutes. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s one of the best easy meatless meals for busy families or budget-friendly healthy dinners.

🔹 Step 1: Cook Pasta & Veggies

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 8 oz of whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 1 cup trimmed green beans and 1 cup corn kernels to the boiling pasta.

This method keeps it a true one-pot pasta recipe, saving time and reducing dishes!

🔹 Step 2: Drain and Toss

Drain everything together, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Return the cooked pasta and veggies to the pot. Add ½ cup of basil pesto and a splash of reserved water to create a creamy coating.

This helps emulsify the sauce, perfect for a restaurant-style healthy pasta at home!

🔹 Step 3: Add Final Touches

Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. For brightness, add a little lemon zest. Optionally top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.

This final step upgrade your dish into a gourmet healthy vegetarian meal everyone will love.

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Variations & Substitutions

This pesto pasta with corn and green beans is super customizable! Below are the best healthy recipe swaps to suit your lifestyle and dietary needs.

🌱 Make It Vegan

Use vegan basil pesto (dairy-free) and skip the Parmesan cheese. Opt for nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of almond parmesan. Perfect for plant-based dinner recipes and dairy-free pasta ideas.

💪 Add More Protein

Mix in grilled chicken, chickpeas, tofu, or edamame for a boost of lean protein. These options are ideal for high-protein vegetarian meals and muscle-building pasta recipes.

🌾 Gluten-Free Option

Swap regular pasta with chickpea pasta, brown rice pasta, or quinoa pasta for a gluten-free dinner option that’s still high in fiber and protein. Great for low-inflammatory diets.

🥒 Low-Carb/Keto Friendly

Use zucchini noodles (zoodles), spaghetti squash, or hearts of palm pasta for a low-carb pesto pasta. These are excellent for keto pasta alternatives and low-glycemic meals.

You can mix and match these variations to create your own budget-friendly healthy dinner. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next meatless Monday meal plan or clean eating meal prep!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

What to serve with your healthy pesto pasta with corn and green beans? Here are some delicious and balanced pairing ideas to turn this quick dinner into a full meal.

🥖 Serve with Artisan Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread or whole grain toast complements this vegetarian pasta dish perfectly. It adds texture and makes your meal more satisfying — perfect for a wholesome dinner idea or a weekend brunch.

🥗 Pair with a Fresh Salad

Try a light side like an arugula and cherry tomato salad with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast and increases the fiber—ideal for a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetarian dinner.

🍷 Wine Pairing for Pasta

Upgrade this meal with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Pinot Grigio. These wines balance the herbaceous notes of basil pesto and enhance the summer flavors — great for date night dinner at home.

📦 Make It a Packed Lunch

This pasta makes an excellent vegetarian lunchbox idea. Serve cold or warm with a fruit cup or low-fat yogurt on the side. Perfect for meal prep for work or busy school lunches.

🌿 Add Protein for a Complete Meal

Turn this into a high-protein meal by adding grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. This transforms your dish into a balanced low-carb, high-protein dinner that’s still light and flavorful.

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Related: Quick Veggie Stir-Fry Recipes

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💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn and green beans for this pasta?

Yes! You can easily substitute fresh vegetables with frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding. This keeps your vegetarian dinner recipe quick and budget-friendly. Using frozen veggies is a great way to make affordable healthy pasta meals year-round.

What kind of pasta works best for pesto?

Short-cut pasta like penne, fusilli, or rotini works best as they hold pesto sauce well. You can also use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for a high-fiber or low-carb alternative.

Is this pesto pasta recipe good for meal prep?

This dish is ideal for vegetarian meal prep as it stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. It’s perfect for lunchboxes, work-from-home meals, and even as a budget-friendly family dinner. Just add a little extra pesto or olive oil when reheating to keep it creamy.

How do I make this pasta lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta and opt for a light or oil-free pesto sauce. Skip the cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. These tweaks make it a perfect option for those looking for low-calorie vegetarian meals or low-fat pasta recipes.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

Yes! Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, white beans, or tofu to boost the protein content. This turns your pesto pasta into a complete, high-protein vegetarian dinner.

What are some good sides to serve with this dish?

Pair it with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of minestrone soup. These combinations make for a well-rounded healthy dinner idea for the whole family. You can also serve it cold as a summer pasta salad with iced lemon tea or white wine.

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Suggested: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe

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📈 Health Benefits of Pesto Pasta with Corn and Green Beans

This delicious vegetarian pasta recipe isn’t just tasty — it’s also packed with wholesome nutrition. Ideal for anyone looking for a low-fat, high-fiber meal that supports weight management, boosts energy, and promotes heart health.

• 🥗 Rich in Fiber

  Green beans and whole wheat pasta provide dietary fiber that supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar — perfect for diabetic-friendly meals.

• 💓 Heart-Healthy Fats

  The basil pesto and olive oil are loaded with monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health and reduce bad cholesterol. Great for those following a heart-healthy diet plan.

• 🔥 Low in Calories

  This dish is under 400 calories per serving — ideal for anyone seeking weight loss meal plans or looking to add more low-calorie vegetarian recipes to their routine.

• 💪 Rich in Antioxidants

  Corn and basil are excellent sources of antioxidants like lutein and beta-carotene, which protect against cellular damage — a boost for immune-boosting meal plans.

• 🧠 Brain & Mood Support

  Olive oil and leafy basil offer nutrients that support brain function and mental clarity. Perfect for those interested in healthy brain food and mood-boosting meals.

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Related: Cheap Pasta Dinners

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💡 Pro Tips To Bring The Best Flavor in Pasta

• ✅Use Fresh Basil Pesto for Richer Taste: Homemade or refrigerated pesto has a deeper flavor and more nutrients.
• ✅Reserve Pasta Water: Add a splash of starchy water to make the pesto sauce creamy and cling to the pasta.
• ✅Zest a Lemon Over the Pasta: The citrus brightens the flavors and adds antioxidant-rich tang.
• ✅Don’t Overcook Green Beans: Keep them crisp-tender for better texture and nutrient retention.
• ✅Add Toasted Pine Nuts or Walnuts: A crunchy topping enhances the mouthfeel and adds healthy fats.
• ✅Grate Fresh Parmesan Right Before Serving: Skip pre-shredded for max flavor.
• ✅Serve Immediately After Mixing: This keeps the pasta silky and ensures optimal flavor.

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Related: Tomato & Rice Soup Recipe

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🛒 Recommended Tools & Ingredients for Making This Healthy Pesto Pasta

To make the most flavorful and nutritious pesto pasta with corn and green beans, here are our top kitchen essentials and ingredient picks. These products help you create quick, easy, and healthy meals that taste restaurant-quality at home.

Non-Stick Pasta Pot with Built-In Strainer

Perfect for one-pot pasta meals. Easy draining, energy-saving, and induction compatible.

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Organic Basil Pesto Sauce (No Preservatives)

Rich flavor, gluten-free, keto-friendly — perfect for healthy weeknight dinners.

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Whole Wheat Fusilli Pasta (High Fiber)

Boosts digestive health and provides long-lasting energy. Non-GMO & 100% natural.

🍝 Grab Yours Today

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This supports our blog and helps us bring more delicious, healthy pasta recipes and kitchen tips your way!

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Suggested: Gluten-Free Dessert Recipes

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