This Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a fresh, vibrant, and indulgent meal that combines the herbaceous flavor of green goddess dressing with the comforting richness of creamy pasta. Packed with greens and blended into a luscious sauce, it’s a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a beautiful blend of fresh herbs, greens, and creaminess.
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
It’s quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes.
A great way to sneak in greens for picky eaters.
Versatile and perfect for customizing with your favorite proteins or veggies.
Excellent for meal prepping and storing.
Tastes just as good cold as it does warm.
Elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for weeknight meals.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
Fresh spinach
Fresh basil
Parsley
Garlic
Avocado
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Water or reserved pasta water

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, yogurt, and a splash of pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste and season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Return the cooked pasta to the pot or a large skillet over low heat. Pour in the green goddess sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Add a bit of reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Stir in grated Parmesan if using.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
Add protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
Add veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, roasted zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
Spicy twist: Add jalapeño or a touch of hot sauce to the sauce for extra kick.
Nutty version: Blend in a handful of cashews or pine nuts for extra creaminess and richness.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

What is Green Goddess sauce made of?

Green Goddess sauce typically includes fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and a creamy base like yogurt, sour cream, or mayonnaise.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply use plant-based yogurt and omit or substitute the Parmesan with vegan cheese.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out the excess water before blending into the sauce.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated.

Can I serve this pasta cold?

Yes, it makes a delicious cold pasta salad-style dish, perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

What type of pasta works best?

Any shape works, but short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle holds the sauce well.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce (without the pasta) in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Add more avocado or a splash of cream or milk when blending the sauce.

What if I don’t have a blender?

You can use a food processor or finely chop the herbs and mix the sauce manually, though it won’t be as smooth.

How do I prevent the sauce from turning brown?

Add a little extra lemon juice to help preserve the green color and store the sauce in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a fresh and flavorful twist on your favorite pasta dish. Loaded with herbs, greens, and a creamy texture, it’s a healthy comfort food you can feel good about. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a vibrant dish to impress, or a meal prep staple, this pasta has you covered.