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.
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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!