I love making this green goddess pasta when I want a fresh, creamy, and herb-packed meal. It’s full of vibrant green flavors and has a smooth, luscious sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy how this dish feels both light and indulgent at the same time. The blend of herbs creates a bright and refreshing flavor, and I like how quickly everything comes together. It’s also easy to customize with different greens or proteins.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup fresh basil
1/4 cup parsley
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or cream
salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
pine nuts or walnuts
grilled chicken or shrimp
Directions
I start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. I reserve a bit of pasta water, then drain and set it aside.
In a blender or food processor, I combine spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and yogurt. I blend until smooth, adding a little pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency.
I toss the cooked pasta with the green goddess sauce until everything is well coated. I season with salt and pepper to taste.
I serve it immediately, optionally topping it with nuts or a protein of my choice.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Preparation time takes around 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use arugula or kale instead of spinach for a different flavor. When I want a vegan version, I skip the parmesan and yogurt or use plant-based alternatives. I also like adding avocado to make the sauce even creamier.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm it in a pan and add a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
I can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What pasta works best?
I like using spaghetti or penne, but any pasta works well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
I can use plant-based yogurt and skip the cheese.
How do I keep the sauce vibrant green?
I use fresh herbs and avoid overcooking the sauce.
Can I add protein?
I like adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas.
Conclusion
I find this green goddess pasta to be a fresh and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect when I want something vibrant, creamy, and full of herbs.
