Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: I recommend using medium-sized pasta shells for a great bite and texture. You can also try farfalle or penne if you prefer other shapes or if you have them on hand.

Green Peas: Fresh peas are delightful, but frozen peas work perfectly too! They’re easy and just as nutritious. No need to thaw; just add them right into the boiling water.

Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives a nice crunch, but you can swap it for green beans or even broccoli if they’re easier to find. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they stay crisp!

Fennel: It brings a unique, slightly sweet flavor. If you don’t like fennel, feel free to use diced celery or bell peppers for a different crunch.

Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess with less fat. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or a cashew cream as a substitute.

How Do You Make the Perfect Green Goddess Dressing?

A great Green Goddess dressing is full of fresh herbs and balanced flavors. Here’s how to nail it:

• Blend your herbs (parsley, basil, chives) thoroughly for a vibrant color and taste.
• Add garlic for depth. Just one clove will do; it’s strong but delicious.
• Mix in Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for creaminess. If you prefer dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt.
• Don’t forget the acidity! Lemon juice brightens the flavors, so use fresh lemon if possible.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting as you go until balanced.

Keeping this dressing mixed well is key to making sure every bite of your salad is packed with flavor. Enjoy!

Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 8 oz pasta shells (medium size)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
• 1 cup asparagus tips, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced fennel bulb
• 1/4 cup sliced green olives

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh chives
• 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Total time is around 45 minutes. Perfect for a fresh and delightful meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta and Veggies:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add the green peas and asparagus tips to the boiling water to blanch them. Once done, drain everything together and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside and let cool.

2. Make the Green Goddess Dressing:

In a food processor or blender, combine the parsley, basil, chives, and garlic. Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. This dressing is what makes the salad vibrant and delicious!

3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, blanched peas, asparagus, sliced fennel, and green olives. Mix them gently to keep the veggies intact.

4. Dress the Pasta Salad:

Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.

5. Taste and Adjust:

Give the salad a taste! You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you’d like. It’s all about finding the perfect balance for your palate.

6. Chill and Serve:

Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature. Top it off with some extra fresh herbs if you fancy!

Enjoy your bright, herbaceous, and creamy Green Goddess Pasta Salad as a delightful side or light main dish!

Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad FAQ

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While medium-sized pasta shells work great, you can use any pasta shape you enjoy, like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.

What Herbs Can I Use for the Dressing?

If you’re out of parsley, basil, or chives, feel free to substitute with other fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or even mint! Just keep in mind that each herb will impart a different flavor to the dressing.

How Long Does the Salad Last in the Fridge?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the veggies may become a bit softer over time.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day or two in advance. Just keep the salad covered in the fridge, and remember to give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.