Salads

Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly marries the flavors of fresh herbs and crisp vegetables with tender pasta. This salad is not only easy to whip up but also serves as a delightful side or a light main course. With its creamy dressing and colorful ingredients, it’s an ideal choice for summer picnics, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 220mg

Why Make This Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables like juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and creamy avocado creates a delightful texture. The green goddess dressing, made with herbs like parsley and basil, adds a beautiful and vibrant hue while delivering a fresh, tangy kick. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is also versatile enough to be adjusted based on personal preferences or dietary needs.

How to Make Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup green goddess dressing
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps to keep the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced avocado, sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and chopped basil. These fresh ingredients bring color, flavor, and nutrition to the salad.

Step 3: Mixing the Salad

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the green goddess dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently to combine. Make sure the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients for the best flavor.

4: Seasoning and Serving

Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can serve it immediately for a delightful warm salad or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold dish. It’s scrumptious either way!

How to Serve Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is perfect as a standalone dish or as a side for grilled meats or seafood. Serve it at a picnic, barbecue, or any casual gathering. For additional crunch, serve with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top.

How to Store Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 2 to 3 days. If you make it ahead of time, consider adding the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning.

Expert Tips for Perfect Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Pasta Choice: Opt for pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli, which hold onto the dressing and flavors better.
Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, use plant-based green goddess dressing or make your own with vegan ingredients.
Dress to Impress: If serving later, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.
Add Protein: Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Replace the green goddess dressing with a vinaigrette and add black olives and feta cheese.
Grilled Veggie Mix: Toss in grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a smoky flavor.
Zesty Flair: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for an extra citrusy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of pasta? Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can work, but smaller shapes like rotini or penne are ideal for catching the dressing.
How can I make it vegan? Use a vegan green goddess dressing or make your own by blending avocado, herbs, lemon juice, and plant-based yogurt.
Is there a substitute for green goddess dressing? Yes, you can use ranch dressing or a homemade herb vinaigrette if you prefer.
Can I prepare this salad in advance? Absolutely! You can make it up to a day ahead; just add the avocado right before serving to ensure it stays fresh.
What should I do if the dressing is too thick? If your dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish. It’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weekday meal. With its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not give it a try and enjoy the delightful flavors it brings to your table?