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.
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 This dish always brings the family to the table, making weeknight dinners feel special and wholesome.
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.
Save 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.