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This Green Goddess Pasta is my answer to quick weeknight cravings that still feel vibrant and nourishing Each ingredient blends into a creamy sauce that hugs each noodle while sweet roasted tomatoes bring a juicy pop to every forkful
Ever since a friend shared her green goddess dressing trick I knew I wanted to make it into a silky pasta sauce and now it is my go to when I want something comforting but light
Ingredients
- Basil leaves: Brings that classic herby brightness Use the freshest basil you can find
- Avocado: Adds creaminess and a subtle buttery note Choose ripe avocados with just a little give
- Spinach: Gives a boost of green color and nutrition Baby spinach works best for tenderness
- Reserved pasta water: Helps blend the sauce so it clings to the pasta Save from cooking spaghetti
- Cashews: Provide body and a nutty depth Raw cashews are ideal and soak them if you have time
- Lemon juice: Cuts through richness and brightens the sauce Freshly squeezed is best for zing
- Garlic: Offers robust background flavor and a gentle bite Opt for plump unblemished cloves
- Nutritional yeast: Delivers a savory cheeselike flavor Choose flakes for easy blending
- Olive oil: Gives the sauce its silky finish Use a good extra virgin oil for best results
- Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors Use flaky sea salt if you like
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Tomatoes:
- Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil salt and pepper Arrange on a baking tray and roast at four hundred ten degrees Fahrenheit for twenty minutes until they blister and caramelize This slow roast brings real sweetness and depth
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil your favorite pasta until just al dente Make sure to scoop out at least three quarters cup pasta water before draining The salty starchy water is magic for a creamy sauce
- Blend the Green Goddess Sauce:
- Combine basil avocado spinach cashews lemon juice garlic nutritional yeast olive oil and some reserved pasta water in a blender Puree everything until smooth Start with half the water and add more until you hit a pourable creamy consistency Taste and add salt or pepper as needed
- Toss Pasta with Sauce:
- Return hot drained spaghetti to the pot or a large bowl Pour over the green goddess sauce and toss quickly so every strand is coated Adding sauce while pasta is steaming hot helps it absorb all those flavors
- Serve with Roasted Tomatoes:
- Pile the pasta into bowls and top generously with roasted cherry tomatoes Finish with extra cracked pepper or a scatter of fresh basil if you like
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The burst of flavor from the basil takes me right back to summer evenings in my mom’s garden plucking leaves straight from the plant There is pure comfort in knowing every ingredient feels good to eat
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool before transferring to an airtight container This pasta will keep well in the fridge for up to three days The sauce may thicken so loosen it up with a spoonful or two of water when reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap spinach for baby kale or arugula if you are out of spinach If you are nut free sunflower seeds work as a cashew replacement The lemon juice can be swapped with a dash of white wine vinegar for brightness
Serving Suggestions
This pasta stands alone as a meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or some garlicky bread For an extra protein hit toss in some white beans or grilled tofu just before serving
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Cultural Context
The original green goddess dressing comes from a beloved San Francisco hotel in the nineteen twenties This pasta spins that classic into a nourishing weeknight meal that feels both retro and new
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make the green sauce extra creamy?
For extra creaminess, blend the sauce longer and use fresh, ripe avocado. Gradually add reserved pasta water to reach your desired texture.
- → Can I substitute another nut for cashews?
Yes, raw blanched almonds or walnuts work well. Each will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Spaghetti works perfectly, but penne or fusilli also capture the sauce beautifully. Choose your favorite shape for best results.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making this a vegan-friendly meal. Just check your pasta ingredients if needed.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Toss with pasta just before serving for best flavor.