Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a vibrant, plant-based dish packed with fresh herbs, leafy greens, and a luscious avocado-based sauce. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor while being completely dairy-free and vegan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant lunch, this pasta is both satisfying and nourishing.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta of choice (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)ripe avocadofresh basilfresh parsleybaby spinachgarliclemon juiceolive oilnutritional yeastunsweetened plant-based milksalt and pepperoptional: green onions or chives for topping
directions
Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, parsley, spinach, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the cooked pasta with the green goddess sauce until evenly coated.
Warm the pasta and sauce together in a pan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Serve immediately, topped with chopped green onions or chives if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 3-4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes
Variations
Add steamed broccoli or peas for extra greens and texture.
Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free.
Top with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Add a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute kale or arugula for spinach for a different leafy base.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess.Avoid microwaving too long as avocado-based sauces can lose their texture.
FAQs
What makes this pasta “Green Goddess”?
The name comes from the vibrant green herbs and vegetables used in the creamy sauce, inspired by the classic Green Goddess dressing.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, just store the sauce and pasta separately and mix before serving for best texture.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Freezing is not recommended due to the avocado base, which may alter in texture when thawed.
Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely, try cilantro, dill, or mint for a flavor twist.
Does it taste like avocado?
The avocado gives it creaminess but the flavor is balanced by the herbs and lemon.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Any pasta shape works, but ridged types like penne or rotini hold the sauce well.
Is nutritional yeast necessary?
It adds a cheesy, umami flavor but can be omitted or substituted with vegan parmesan.
Can I serve it cold?
Yes! It makes a great chilled pasta salad for warmer days.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, especially if you blend the sauce smooth and keep it mild.
Can I add protein?
Definitely—try chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh for a protein boost.
Conclusion
Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is a deliciously green and wholesome vegan dish that brings together the freshness of herbs with the richness of avocado. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone craving comfort food with a healthy twist. Serve it warm or cold, and enjoy the green magic in every bite.
PrintCreamy Green Goddess Pasta Recipe (Vegan)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Blending, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy, herbaceous, and vibrant vegan pasta dish made with a rich Green Goddess sauce packed with fresh herbs, avocado, and lemon. Perfect for a refreshing and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh chives
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup water (as needed to thin sauce)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup baby spinach
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil, parsley, chives, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, nutritional yeast, and baby spinach.
- Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the Green Goddess sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if desired.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Add grilled vegetables or tofu for extra protein and texture.
- The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.