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 recipe quickly became a favorite in my household, especially for busy weeknights when I want something nutritious and delicious.
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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
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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 This dish always brings the family to the table, making weeknight dinners feel special and wholesome.
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Preparation Tips
Make sure to blend the sauce until very smooth for the creamiest texture. Adding pasta water gradually helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of water if sauce thickens.
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This vibrant pasta not only tastes great but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dinner table.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti all are great choices. Gluten-free pasta can also be used to suit dietary needs.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Blend the sauce ingredients thoroughly and add reserved pasta water gradually until the desired creamy consistency is reached.
- → Are there nut-free alternatives for the toppings?
Yes, sunflower seeds can replace pine nuts to keep the dish nut-free without sacrificing texture or flavor.
- → Can I add heat or extra acidity to this dish?
A squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of chili flakes can brighten the flavors and add a subtle kick.
- → What wine pairs well with this pasta?
Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the fresh, herbaceous notes beautifully.
