Save A vibrant, creamy pasta dish featuring a bright green sauce made from spinach, fresh herbs, and avocado. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this plant-based recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
This vegan green goddess pasta quickly became a family favorite for its fresh flavors and comforting creaminess without dairy.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) dried pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti – gluten-free if desired), Salt for pasta water
- Green Goddess Sauce: 100 g (3 cups) fresh baby spinach washed, 1 ripe avocado peeled and pitted, 25 g (1 cup) fresh basil leaves, 10 g (½ cup) fresh parsley leaves, 2 cloves garlic peeled, 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about ½ lemon), 60 ml (¼ cup) extra-virgin olive oil, 120 ml (½ cup) unsweetened plant-based milk (oat soy or almond), 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast, ½ teaspoon salt or to taste, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Toppings (optional): 1 small zucchini spiralized or thinly sliced, 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds, Fresh basil leaves, Cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water then drain pasta and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks prepare the sauce In a blender or food processor combine spinach avocado basil parsley garlic lemon juice olive oil plant-based milk nutritional yeast salt and pepper Blend until completely smooth and creamy Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
- Step 3:
- Return drained pasta to the pot or a large bowl Pour the green goddess sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed for a silkier sauce.
- Step 4:
- Serve pasta in bowls Top with zucchini cherry tomatoes toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Save Sharing this pasta at family dinners has brought everyone around the table with smiles and second servings.
Preparation and Cooking Times
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Dietary Information
This recipe is vegan dairy-free and nut-free with substitutions making it accessible for various diets.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the fresh herbaceous flavors.
Save This green goddess pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that fits perfectly into any weeknight meal rotation.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well and maintains the dish's texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve the creamy texture in the sauce?
Blending avocado and plant-based milk with fresh spinach and herbs creates a smooth, creamy sauce without dairy.
- → What are good alternatives to pine nuts for toppings?
Toasted sunflower seeds offer a nut-free crunchy alternative that complements the flavors nicely.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 24 hours to enhance flavors.
- → How can I add brightness or heat to this dish?
A squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of chili flakes provide fresh brightness or a gentle kick.