Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines creamy green goddess sauce, fresh herbs, and tender pasta. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish at any gathering, this salad offers a refreshing burst of flavor and texture. Its rich green color and herbaceous aroma are sure to captivate your guests and make every meal feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Packed with fresh herbs, it’s bursting with flavor and offers a unique taste profile.
This is a healthy option, high in protein and fiber while low in calories.
The creamy avocado dressing elevates this herbaceous pasta salad to a whole new level.
Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side, satisfyingly filling.
Perfect for meal prep: it keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!
Great for vegetarians and can easily be made vegan if you choose the right ingredients.
With options for add-ins, you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Gather these items:

5 ounces full-fat Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ cups fresh herbs (dill, basil, mint, or cilantro)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Zest of ½ lemon
16 ounces orecchiette pasta (or rotini, fusilli, or penne)
1 bunch of asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Green Goddess Pasta Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to boil.
Step 2: Make the Green Goddess Sauce: In a blender or with an immersion blender, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon juice and zest, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Vegetables: Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. When there are 2 minutes left on the pasta cooking time, add the asparagus and peas. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Assemble: Drain the pasta and vegetables and transfer to a large bowl. Let cool for 5 minutes, then add the green goddess sauce. Stir in additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Toss to combine.
Step 5: Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Keep these in mind:

This salad can be made a day in advance for maximum flavor.
Feel free to substitute the pasta type to your preference to keep it interesting.
Add grilled chicken for extra protein, turning this into a Green Goddess Pasta Salad with Chicken.
For a vegan option, swap Greek yogurt with avocado for a delightful Avocado Dressing Pasta Salad.
Mix in additional veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a colorful twist.

Best Ways to Serve Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Here are some great serving suggestions:

Serve as a refreshing side at barbecues or picnics.
Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
Make it the star of your lunch with some crusty bread on the side.

How to Store and Reheat Green Goddess Pasta Salad

To keep your chilled green goddess salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 3 days, improving in flavor as it sits. When ready to serve, simply give it a good mix to incorporate the dressing again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Green Goddess Pasta Salad

What’s the secret to perfect Green Goddess Pasta Salad?

The secret lies in the fresh herbs and the creamy green goddess sauce that binds everything together. Using high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor profile and ensure a delicious outcome every time.

Can I make Green Goddess Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Green Goddess Pasta Salad?

Be sure to follow the pasta cooking instructions carefully, as undercooked or overcooked pasta can affect the texture. Also, always mix the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.

Variations of Green Goddess Pasta Salad You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to consider:

For a vegan green goddess pasta recipe, replace Greek yogurt with avocado or a nut-based yogurt.
Add roasted vegetables for a zesty green pasta dish that’s hearty and satisfying.
Incorporate nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Try different pasta shapes or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making a refreshing tuna pasta salad for a quick meal. If you’re interested in meal prep, this creamy potato salad is another great option to consider!

Delicious Green Goddess Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

Author: basmer
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines creamy green goddess sauce, fresh herbs, and tender pasta. Perfect for summer picnics or as a side dish at any gathering, this salad offers a refreshing burst of flavor and texture.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to boil.
Make the Green Goddess Sauce: In a blender or with an immersion blender, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, fresh herbs, lemon juice and zest, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
Cook the Pasta and Vegetables: Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. When there are 2 minutes left on the pasta cooking time, add the asparagus and peas. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente and the vegetables are tender.
Assemble: Drain the pasta and vegetables and transfer to a large bowl. Let cool for 5 minutes, then add the green goddess sauce. Stir in additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Toss to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use. Enjoy!