Save to Pinterest 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.
I love making this pasta when I want something fresh and satisfying that my whole family enjoys.
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 to Pinterest This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table sharing smiles and stories.
Preparation Tips
Make sure to blend the sauce thoroughly for a creamy texture and adjust salt to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the fresh flavors.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Save to Pinterest This vibrant pasta is sure to become a weeknight favorite with its fresh flavors and simple prep.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pasta types work best with the green goddess sauce?
Penne, fusilli, and spaghetti all complement the creamy green sauce well. Gluten-free options can be used without altering flavor.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients in the sauce?
Yes, you can swap pine nuts for sunflower seeds for a nut-free option and use your preferred unsweetened plant-based milk for creaminess.
- → How can I make the sauce thinner or thicker?
Adjust thickness by adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired texture is reached.
- → Are there any recommended toppings?
Spiralized zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and extra basil leaves provide freshness and texture, while toasted seeds add a satisfying crunch.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhance the fresh and vibrant flavors beautifully.