Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a vibrant, herby, and luxuriously smooth dish that brings the freshness of green herbs together with a velvety, nutrient-packed sauce. Made with a blend of basil, spinach, avocado, and creamy elements, this pasta is both indulgent and wholesome—a perfect choice for a refreshing lunch or weeknight dinner that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta of choice (linguine, spaghetti, or penne work well)fresh basilspinach (or kale)ripe avocadofresh parsleygarliclemon juiceolive oilGreek yogurt or plant-based yogurtparmesan cheese or nutritional yeastsaltblack pepperwater or reserved pasta waterred pepper flakes (optional)pine nuts or walnuts (optional for garnish)
directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a blender or food processor, combine basil, spinach, avocado, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, yogurt, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
Return cooked pasta to the pot or a large skillet over low heat.
Pour the green goddess sauce over the pasta and toss gently until well coated and heated through.
Adjust seasoning to taste and add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
Serve immediately, topped with more parmesan, pine nuts, or fresh herbs.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Use zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta for a lighter option.
Mix in steamed peas or sautéed mushrooms for more veggies.
Swap Greek yogurt with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to revive the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing due to avocado in the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, store it separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before using.
Is this pasta vegan?
It can be—just use plant-based yogurt and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
What kind of pasta works best?
Short or long pasta both work—just choose one with enough surface to catch the sauce.
Can I make it nut-free?
Yes, skip the nuts or use roasted seeds as a garnish alternative.
Does it taste like avocado?
Not strongly—the herbs, lemon, and garlic balance the flavor beautifully.
How do I get it extra creamy?
Add more yogurt or a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Can I add cheese on top?
Yes, freshly grated parmesan or vegan cheese makes a perfect finishing touch.
Is it good cold?
Absolutely—it doubles as a refreshing pasta salad the next day.
Can I use frozen greens?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before blending.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes—cilantro, mint, or dill can add unique twists to the flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a simple yet stunning dish that’s full of flavor, color, and nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a fresh, herb-forward dinner, this pasta delivers with every creamy, zesty bite. A true green dream on your plate.
PrintCreamy Green Goddess Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is packed with fresh herbs, leafy greens, and a silky, tangy sauce that hugs every bite of pasta. Made with a blend of basil, spinach, avocado, garlic, and lemon, this green goddess sauce is not only delicious but also nourishing. It’s quick to make, naturally vegetarian, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
Ingredients
For the Green Goddess Sauce:
1 ripe avocado
1 cup fresh spinach
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
1/4–1/3 cup water or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess
For the Pasta:
12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
1 cup reserved pasta water
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional mix-ins: steamed broccoli, peas, sautéed zucchini, or grilled chicken/tofu
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain. -
Make the sauce:
While the pasta cooks, blend all sauce ingredients (avocado, spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, parmesan, water, salt, and pepper) in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy. Adjust water for desired consistency. -
Combine pasta and sauce:
Return drained pasta to the pot or a large pan. Add the green goddess sauce and a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss over low heat until the sauce coats the pasta and is warmed through. Add more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
-
Add toppings:
Stir in any mix-ins if using, like veggies or protein. Serve immediately with extra parmesan or lemon zest on top.
Notes
Make it vegan by swapping parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
This sauce also works great as a dip or sandwich spread!
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