Gluten Free Arugula Pesto Spaghetti & Vegan Patties
Looking for a quick, gluten-free dinner that’s bold in flavor and easy to make? This gluten-free arugula pesto pasta with vegan patties checks all the boxes: it's allergy-friendly (nut-free and dairy-free), rich in plant-based protein, and ridiculously satisfying. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or just want a dinner that hits hard with fresh flavors, this one’s for you.
Ingredients
For the Pesto Pasta:
- 8 oz gluten-free spaghetti
- 2 cups fresh arugula packed
- 1 cup fresh cilantro packed (stems okay!)
- ¼ cup sunflower seeds toasted, if possible
- ⅓ cup vegan Parmesan Rebel Cheese or similar
- 2 cloves garlic peeled
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest optional, but brightens flavor
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ¼ to ½ cup reserved pasta water as needed
For the Vegan Patties:
- 2 –3 No Bull vegan patties or preferred vegan patty brand
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz gluten-free spaghetti and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Sunflower Seeds
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast ¼ cup sunflower seeds for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Pesto
- In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine:
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 cup cilantro
- 2 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup toasted sunflower seeds
- ⅓ cup vegan Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- Blend until smooth. Add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the pesto is creamy and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Sear the Vegan Patties
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 2–3 No Bull vegan patties and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown. Let rest for a minute, then slice if desired.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Pour the pesto over the noodles and toss gently to coat, adding a splash more pasta water if needed for a silky texture. Plate and top with sliced vegan patties. Garnish with more Rebel Cheese, sunflower seeds, or lemon zest if desired.