Creamy Green Goddess Pasta: Your Quick & Healthy 30-Minute Weeknight Meal
Indulge in this incredibly creamy, vibrant, and flavor-packed Green Goddess Pasta that comes together in just 30 minutes! It’s the perfect solution for a speedy weeknight dinner, and equally delicious served hot or cold for lunch.
This delightful blog post is proudly sponsored by Pasta Lensi! Your support for the brands that partner with Jessica in the Kitchen helps us continue creating delicious recipes. All thoughts and opinions shared here are entirely my own!
For years, avocado dressing has been a staple in my kitchen, a true culinary chameleon transforming everything from dips to sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Yet, it wasn’t until now that I truly discovered its magic when combined with pasta! This rich, verdant sauce marries perfectly with tender pasta, creating a dish that’s both comforting and invigorating. For this particular recipe, I was absolutely thrilled to use Pasta Lensi’s Lentil Pasta with Spinach and Basil. Its unique blend of flavors and textures elevated the entire Green Goddess experience.
What makes Pasta Lensi’s lentil pasta truly stand out is its impressive nutritional profile, boasting 23g of protein per 3.5 oz portion (roughly two servings). Beyond the protein boost, I was captivated by its subtle, yet distinct, spinach and basil undertones, which complement the creamy avocado sauce beautifully. The texture of this pasta is remarkable – it maintains a delightful al dente bite and never gets mushy, even when reheated or served chilled. This makes it an ideal choice for both warm dinners and refreshing cold pasta salads. I wholeheartedly recommend trying their pasta, and you can easily explore their range and make a purchase right here. Prepare to be amazed by how this high-protein, gluten-free option transforms your pasta dishes!
Why You’ll Adore This Green Goddess Pasta
- Lightning Fast: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table quickly.
- Creamy & Dreamy: The avocado-based sauce delivers an unparalleled creamy texture without any dairy, making it wonderfully plant-based.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with healthy fats from avocado and tahini, plus a significant protein boost from lentil pasta, this dish is as nourishing as it is tasty.
- Incredibly Flavorful: Fresh herbs, zesty citrus, and pungent garlic combine to create a vibrant, irresistible flavor profile.
- Versatile Delight: Enjoy it hot straight from the pan, or chill it for a refreshing cold pasta salad. It also holds up beautifully as leftovers!
- Gluten-Free & Vegan Friendly: Naturally accommodates various dietary needs without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Key Ingredients for Your Green Goddess Pasta
Crafting this Green Goddess Pasta requires a few simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary sauce. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:
- Pasta Lensi Lentil Pasta with Spinach and Basil: This is undeniably the star of our dish. I’m a huge advocate for gluten-free pastas, not just for those with sensitivities, but because they often significantly boost the protein content of any pasta meal. Pasta Lensi’s lentil pasta is particularly excellent, offering a robust texture that resists becoming mushy, even with a creamy sauce. Its subtle spinach and basil notes infuse the dish with an extra layer of freshness that complements the Green Goddess dressing perfectly. Always remember to cook it precisely according to the package directions for optimal results.
- Avocado: The heart of our “Green Goddess” sauce! Avocado is not just for its beautiful, vibrant green hue; it also provides the essential body and thickness that makes this dressing so luxuriously creamy. It’s packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, contributing to the richness and satiety of the meal. Choose a ripe but firm avocado for the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs are non-negotiable for a true Green Goddess experience. Parsley adds a bright, herbaceous freshness and those charming little green flecks that enhance the visual appeal of the sauce. Flat-leaf parsley tends to have a more robust flavor than curly parsley.
- Sea Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in the dressing. The amount you need might vary slightly depending on the saltiness of your pasta water, so it’s always best to taste and adjust at the end.
- Juice of One Lime or Lemon: This is where the “goddess” truly shines! Fresh citrus juice provides a vital burst of acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness of the avocado and tahini, preventing the sauce from tasting heavy. It truly awakens the entire dressing. Lemon is classic, but lime offers a slightly different, equally delightful zing.
- Tahini: A fantastic ingredient that replaces oil in this recipe, contributing healthy fats, an incredible nutty depth of flavor, and acting as a superb emulsifier. Tahini helps to bind the dressing ingredients together, ensuring a smooth, cohesive sauce. Make sure to stir your tahini well before measuring, as the oil often separates.
- Garlic: A foundational flavor builder. Fresh garlic cloves are crucial here, imparting a pungent, savory aroma that is indispensable for the dressing’s complexity. Adjust the amount to your preference – I love a generous three cloves!
- Water: Used primarily for thinning out the dressing to achieve the perfect consistency. Start with a smaller amount and add more gradually until your desired thickness is reached. The amount needed can vary based on the size and creaminess of your avocado.
- Pasta Water: Do NOT skip this step or substitute it with regular tap water! The starchy water left over from boiling your pasta is liquid gold. Its starch content helps the Green Goddess sauce emulsify beautifully and adhere effortlessly to every strand of pasta, creating a truly decadent coating.
How to Make Green Goddess Pasta in 30 Minutes
Creating this flavorful and vibrant Green Goddess Pasta is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal that’s ready in no time!
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your Pasta Lensi Lentil Pasta with Spinach and Basil and cook according to the package directions. For best results and a perfect al dente bite, I always recommend cooking for the lesser of the two suggested times, as it will continue to cook briefly with the sauce. Before draining, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside. Do not rinse!
- Prepare the Green Goddess Sauce: While your pasta is happily boiling, gather all your Green Goddess sauce ingredients: avocado, fresh parsley, sea salt, fresh lime or lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and a starting amount of ¼ cup of water. Combine all these ingredients in a food processor or a high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Process the ingredients until they form a perfectly smooth, creamy, and vibrant green sauce. Start with ¼ cup of water, and depending on the size and moisture content of your avocado, you may need to add a tablespoon or two more water to achieve your desired consistency. You’re aiming for a luxurious, pourable dressing that isn’t too thick or too thin. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – perhaps a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the empty pot or a large skillet. Pour the freshly blended Green Goddess sauce generously over the pasta.
- Heat and Coat: Place the pot or skillet back on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir the pasta and sauce together thoroughly for about 3 minutes, ensuring every piece of pasta is beautifully coated and the sauce is gently warmed through. At this point, add about ½ cup of the reserved starchy pasta water. Continue stirring until the sauce reaches a wonderfully creamy and cohesive consistency, clinging perfectly to the pasta. If you desire a thinner sauce, feel free to add a little more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s just right.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer your glorious Green Goddess Pasta to bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or even some chili flakes for a subtle kick. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite! This pasta is fantastic on its own or paired with your favorite vegetables or protein additions.
Expert Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To ensure your Green Goddess Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind and get answers to common questions:
- Don’t Overcook Your Pasta: This is especially crucial when working with gluten-free pastas. While Pasta Lensi pasta is commendably more resistant to overcooking than many other gluten-free varieties I’ve tried, it’s still best to stick to the package directions, opting for the lower end of the cooking time range. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the warm sauce for a few minutes.
- Never Rinse Your Pasta: Resist the urge to rinse your cooked pasta! The natural starch that clings to the pasta strands is your secret weapon. It helps the Green Goddess sauce adhere beautifully, creating a silky, cohesive coating rather than a watery, separated one. I actually prefer to transfer the drained pasta directly from the pot into the pan with the sauce for seamless integration.
- Gentle Heat is Key: When combining the pasta and sauce, cook them together over a medium-low heat. This gentle warmth allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the sauce fully coats the pasta without scorching or becoming too thick too quickly. Patience here yields a much creamier result.
- Choose a Fresh, Green Avocado: For the most vibrant color and optimal creaminess in your sauce, select a perfectly ripe avocado. It should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft. A bruised or brown avocado will compromise both the visual appeal and the fresh taste of your Green Goddess dressing.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency with Pasta Water: Don’t be shy with the reserved pasta water! It’s your best friend for achieving the ideal sauce consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more pasta water, stirring continuously, until it reaches your desired creaminess.
FAQ:
- Can I make this Green Goddess Pasta ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! This pasta tastes fantastic hot or cold. You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them just before serving, or mix them together and chill. If serving cold, you might want to add a splash of lemon juice or a tiny bit of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Green Goddess Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s excellent for meal prep!
- Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider folding in cherry tomatoes, sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli florets, snap peas, or roasted asparagus for added nutrition and texture.
- Is this recipe truly vegan and gluten-free? Yes! Using lentil pasta ensures it’s gluten-free, and all ingredients in the Green Goddess sauce are plant-based, making it entirely vegan.
- What if I don’t have a food processor? A high-speed blender will work perfectly to achieve a smooth and creamy sauce. If you only have an immersion blender, you can try it in a deep bowl, but you might need to scrape down the sides more frequently to ensure everything gets blended.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? While the Pasta Lensi lentil pasta is highly recommended for its protein content and texture, you can certainly use your favorite gluten-free or regular pasta shape. Just ensure it’s a shape that can hold onto a creamy sauce well, like fusilli, penne, or fettuccine.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Green Goddess Pasta is incredibly versatile and delicious on its own, but it also provides a fantastic canvas for customization. Here are some ideas to make it even more your own:
Creative Variations:
- Add Protein: For an even more satisfying meal, consider adding:
- Chickpeas: Roasted or simply tossed in with the pasta for a plant-based protein boost.
- Grilled Tofu or Tempeh: Marinated and pan-fried for savory depth.
- White Beans: Cannellini beans or great northern beans add creaminess and protein.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For those who prefer non-vegan options, these make excellent additions.
- Boost the Greens: Incorporate more fresh or lightly cooked greens:
- Spinach or Arugula: Wilted into the warm pasta at the very end.
- Kale: Massaged with a little lemon juice before adding, or lightly sautéed.
- Cucumber: Diced and added for a refreshing crunch, especially when serving cold.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the sauce or as a garnish will give it a pleasant kick.
- Nutty Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts can add a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
- Flavor Twists:
- Fresh Dill or Chives: Swap or add these herbs alongside parsley for a different aromatic profile.
- Nutritional Yeast: Stir in a tablespoon or two for a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is the perfect complement.
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or ciabatta is ideal for soaking up any extra delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini would pair beautifully.
- Soup Pairing: Serve alongside a light vegetable broth or a creamy tomato soup for a hearty meal.
- Fresh Lemon Wedges: Always keep extra lemon wedges on hand for a final squeeze of brightness just before eating.
Whether you stick to the original recipe or get creative with these variations, this Green Goddess Pasta promises a delicious, satisfying, and refreshingly quick meal for any occasion.
Related Recipes
If you loved this creamy pasta dish, you might also enjoy these other flavorful recipes:
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Ingredients
- ½ large avocado
- ¼ cup parsley, finely diced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup tahini, stirred properly together first
- 3 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup water
- 1 box Pasta Lensi Lentil Pasta with Spinach and Basil
- ½ cup pasta water
Instructions
- Boil your pasta according to package directions (I always use the lesser of the two times). Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is boiling, Blend all the green goddess ingredients together in a food processor, starting with ¼ cup of the water depending on the size of your avocado. You can add more water if you want to thin out the dressing. Enjoy!
- Add your drained pasta back into the pan and add the sauce all over it. Stir to combine fully on medium low heat for about 3 minutes until all is fully heated through and coating the pasta. Add in ½ cup pasta water to thin out and fully coat the pasta. Feel free to add more pasta water in to make the sauce thinner if desired.
- Serve with more veggies or additions and enjoy!
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.