Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, hearty pasta, and a tangy, creamy dressing. The creamy dressing with basil, spinach, and garlic adds layers of flavor, while the mix of asparagus, snap peas, and cucumbers offers refreshing crunches with every bite. It’s the ideal dish to make when you want something light yet satisfying, and it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy summer days. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Ingredients

• 1 pound short pasta, such as fusillini or casarecce

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, from 1 lemon

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste

• ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 2 cloves garlic

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ¼ cup loosely packed basil leaves + 6 roughly chopped

• 2 cups roughly chopped spinach

• ¼ cup roughly chopped chives

• ½ pound asparagus, trimmed, cut in half lengthwise, then chopped into 1-inch pieces

• 1½ cups chopped snap peas or 1 cup sweet peas (thawed)

• ½ English cucumber or 4 Persian cucumbers, diced

• 1 cup pitted, halved Castelvetrano olives (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a blender, combine the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic, Dijon mustard, ¼ cup basil, and 1 cup spinach. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, remaining basil, remaining spinach, chopped chives, asparagus, snap peas, cucumber, and olives (if using).

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything to coat evenly.

5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving. This salad keeps well for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the fridge.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.

• Switch the Veggies: You can swap out asparagus or snap peas for other veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or artichokes for a different flavor profile.

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this salad gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store this Green Goddess Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: It’s best served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, but it doesn’t need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle will work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to marinate. You can prepare it a few hours or the day before serving.

3. How long can I store this pasta salad?

The Green Goddess Pasta Salad will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

4. Can I use a store-bought dressing instead of making my own?

Yes, you can substitute a store-bought green goddess dressing if you’re short on time, though homemade dressing gives it the freshest flavor.

5. What can I use instead of mayo?

You can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free mayo substitute if you want a lighter or dairy-free option.

6. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Green Goddess Pasta Salad is completely vegetarian. You can easily make it vegan by swapping the mayo for a plant-based version.

7. Can I freeze the pasta salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the dressing and veggies don’t freeze well and may change in texture upon thawing.

8. What other herbs can I add to the dressing?

Fresh parsley, dill, or tarragon would all complement the flavors in this salad beautifully.

9. Can I use frozen peas instead of snap peas?

Yes, frozen peas work just as well, especially if you thaw them before adding them to the salad.

10. Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, crumbled feta or goat cheese would be delicious additions if you enjoy cheese in your salads.

Conclusion

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s packed with summer vegetables. With a simple yet vibrant dressing and a hearty combination of pasta and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a satisfying meal on its own. Easy to prepare, customizable, and great for leftovers, it’s a must-try for any pasta salad lover.