Green Goddess Pasta Salad – Clara quick dinners

Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish that brings together tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a rich, herb-packed Green Goddess dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying side or light main dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, and everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Green Goddess Pasta Salad because it’s bursting with fresh herbs, creamy dressing, and colorful vegetables. It’s quick to make, customizable, and packs a bright and zesty flavor that feels both light and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fun, delicious way to enjoy lots of greens in one dish.

Ingredients

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

• Short pasta (like rotini, bowtie, or penne)
• Cucumber, diced
• Sugar snap peas, trimmed and halved
• Green bell pepper, diced
• Avocado, diced
• Fresh spinach or arugula
• Green onions, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh chives
• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil, parsley, chives, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth to create the Green Goddess dressing.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the cucumber, sugar snap peas, green bell pepper, spinach or arugula, and green onions.
4. Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Gently fold in the diced avocado.
6. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad serves about 6-8 people as a side dish.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
• Substitute kale or mixed greens for spinach.
• Include edamame or green peas for extra texture and protein.
• Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a richer dressing.
• Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist.

Storage/reheating

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Because it contains avocado, it’s best enjoyed within a day or two. Stir gently before serving and, if needed, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten it up. Reheating is not recommended as this salad is meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I make Green Goddess pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best freshness, add avocado just before serving.

What pasta is best for Green Goddess pasta salad?

Short, sturdy pasta like rotini, bowtie, or penne works best to hold the creamy dressing.

How do I keep avocado from browning in the salad?

Toss the diced avocado in lemon juice and add it just before serving.

Can I use store-bought Green Goddess dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing gives the freshest and most vibrant flavor.

What vegetables can I add?

You can add broccoli, zucchini, asparagus, or any green vegetables you enjoy.

Is Green Goddess pasta salad healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with greens, fresh herbs, and a lighter yogurt-based dressing.

How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days, but it’s best eaten within 24 hours for the freshest taste.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, use a vegan mayonnaise and a dairy-free yogurt to make the dressing plant-based.

How can I make the dressing more tangy?

Add an extra splash of lemon juice or a bit of white wine vinegar to the dressing.

Can I serve this salad warm?

It’s best served cold or at room temperature to preserve the freshness of the vegetables and herbs.

Conclusion

Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a bright, herbaceous, and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a refreshing way to enjoy greens and pasta together. Whether served as a side dish or a light main, it’s a guaranteed favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

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