How long does it take to make Amaranth Microgreen Pesto Pasta?
This recipe takes approximately 15 min total.
15 min
· Serves 2
· Updated February 21, 2026
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Amaranth microgreens are best added fresh as a finishing ingredient. This quick and easy pasta dish features a vibrant amaranth microgreen pesto that adds a unique, earthy flavor.
This recipe takes approximately 15 min total.
Amaranth microgreens work best as a fresh finishing ingredient, adding color, texture, and a just-cut flavor that stands out right before serving.
8 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice
2 cups amaranth microgreens
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Extra amaranth microgreens for garnish
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a food processor, combine the amaranth microgreens, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until evenly coated.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra amaranth microgreens and additional Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy a hearty meal that's packed with nutrition and flavor!
Amaranth microgreens are distinguished by their vibrant magenta and gold pigments, which come from betalain compounds. They are chosen by chefs primarily for visual impact and mild, earthy flavor. Amaranth grain has a stronger evidence base than amaranth microgreens specifically.
• Amaranth species have been studied for betalain pigment content, the same class of pigments found in beets and some other plants.
moderate evidence• Pigment intensity and flavor in amaranth microgreens vary significantly by variety and light exposure during growing.
strong evidence1. Assessment of Vitamin and Carotenoid Concentrations of Emerging Food Products: Edible Microgreens — Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2012
2. Microgreens: Production, Shelf Life, and Bioactive Components — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 2017