Mediterranean Lemon, Artichoke & Spinach Green Goddess Pasta
This vibrant, healthy pasta features tender whole-grain or gluten-free pasta tossed in a creamy Green Goddess-inspired sauce made from herbs, lemon, and avocado or yogurt, with artichoke hearts and fresh spinach. Bright, herbaceous, and satisfying.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
12 oz whole-grain or gluten-free pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
3 cups fresh spinach
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small garlic clove, minced
Green Goddess Sauce
1 ripe avocado or ½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp fresh basil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1–2 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp water (to thin if needed)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings
2 tbsp grated Parmesan or feta
Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
Extra fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Prepare the Green Goddess Sauce
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado or Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add water as needed to reach a pourable consistency.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add artichokes and cook 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Stir in spinach and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
1. Add drained pasta to the skillet with vegetables.
2. Pour the Green Goddess sauce over the pasta and toss until evenly coated.
3. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Serve
Divide pasta among plates or bowls.
Top with grated cheese and toasted nuts if desired.
Garnish with extra herbs or lemon zest.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh artichokes?
Yes — steam or roast them first. Canned or jarred hearts save time.
Can this be meal-prepped?
Yes — store pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for 2–3 days. Add fresh spinach when reheating.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes — store in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Stir in a bit of water or olive oil before tossing with pasta.
Tips for Best Results
Use fresh herbs for a bright, vibrant sauce.
Toasted nuts add crunch and richness.
Add a squeeze of extra lemon when serving for brightness.
Reserve some pasta water — it helps bind the sauce without thinning it too much.
Use whole-grain or high-protein pasta to make it more filling.
Estimated Nutrition
Calories: ~360
Protein: ~12 g
Carbohydrates: ~45 g
Fiber: ~10 g
Fat: ~16 g
Saturated Fat: ~2.5 g
Sodium: ~210 mg