If you’re craving a pasta dish that is vibrant, fresh, and packed with creamy goodness, then this Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of savory herbs, tangy greens, and creamy sauce that coats each noodle to perfection. The best part? It’s ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want something satisfying and light yet rich in flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can make this dish in under 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for those hectic nights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Vibrant and Flavorful: The creamy green goddess dressing turns this pasta into something absolutely magical. The herbs and greens create a refreshing, herbaceous flavor that’s perfectly balanced with the creamy sauce.
Light Yet Satisfying: This is the kind of dish that leaves you feeling full and content without being heavy. The creamy sauce is rich but light enough to be enjoyed all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delicious Creamy Green Goddess Pasta, here’s everything you’ll need:

Pasta: Any type of pasta will work, but I recommend using fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine for the best texture. The long noodles are perfect for capturing that creamy sauce.
Green Goddess Dressing: This is the star of the show! Made from fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and tarragon, mixed with yogurt and a hint of lemon, the dressing provides that creamy, herby kick that makes this pasta irresistible.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a burst of flavor that works perfectly with the green goddess dressing. It’s earthy, fragrant, and just the right amount of punch.
Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings a pop of acidity to balance the richness of the cream. It makes the whole dish feel bright and refreshing.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth to the creamy sauce, elevating the flavors even further.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps bring everything together and gives the pasta a silky smooth texture.
Spinach or Arugula: Adding fresh spinach or arugula boosts the flavor and color of this dish. You can even use a mix of both for extra nutrition and flavor.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper is all you need. Season to taste for a perfect balance.

Variations

Looking to switch things up a bit? Here are some fun variations you can try:

Extra Greens: Try adding peas, kale, or broccoli for extra green goodness in your pasta. These will bring both flavor and texture to the dish.
Chicken or Shrimp: If you’re looking for extra protein, grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp are great additions. They’ll complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Vegan Version: For a dairy-free and vegan option, swap the cream and cheese for coconut cream and nutritional yeast. You’ll still get that creamy texture and savory flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy twist that gives the dish a little heat.
Nuts or Seeds: For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top of your pasta before serving.

How to Make Creamy Green Goddess Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Drain and set aside, saving about a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Make the Green Goddess Dressing

In a food processor or blender, combine the green goddess dressing ingredients: fresh parsley, basil, tarragon, garlic, lemon juice, yogurt, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy green goddess dressing. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add the Greens

Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula, allowing the heat from the pasta to wilt the greens slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. For extra flair, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Pasta Water Magic: Don’t skip saving some pasta water! The starchy water helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling to the noodles better, creating a smoother and more flavorful pasta dish.
Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Using fresh herbs in the green goddess dressing gives the dish a vibrant flavor. While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh is definitely best.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta while cooking. You want it al dente so it holds its shape and texture well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Balance the Acidity: If you find the dish a bit too tangy, a touch of honey or a little extra olive oil can round it out. Adjust the acidity to your liking.

How to Serve

This Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

Salad:

A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

Bread:

Garlic bread or a crusty baguette would be perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Wine Pairing:

A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the herby notes of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra pasta water to revive the creamy texture.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the greens may change once thawed. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a pan with a splash of water.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding pasta water or olive oil to restore the creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought green goddess dressing?
Yes, store-bought green goddess dressing can be used in a pinch, but homemade dressing will give you a fresher, more vibrant flavor. Feel free to experiment with store-bought for convenience!

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy green goddess sauce works wonderfully with gluten-free noodles.

3. Is this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, just substitute the cream and cheese for coconut cream and nutritional yeast, and you’ve got a completely vegan version of this dish.

4. Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu would be fantastic additions. Just toss them in after mixing the pasta with the sauce for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Green Goddess Pasta is the kind of dish that will have you coming back for seconds, maybe even thirds! With its fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it’s both a comforting and refreshing meal that comes together in no time. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or any time you want a satisfying pasta that’s full of life. Try it today—you won’t regret it!

Creamy Green Goddess Pasta Recipe