Fresh and Flavorful Green Goddess Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is a vibrant twist on the classic Green Goddess flavors — packed with fresh herbs, leafy greens, and a creamy avocado-herb dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a summer lunch, picnic, or as a Mediterranean-inspired side dish.
Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
3 cups cooked pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
2 cups baby spinach or kale, chopped
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup snap peas or green beans, blanched
½ avocado, cubed
¼ cup green onions, sliced
¼ cup toasted pine nuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds
⅓ cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Green Goddess Dressing:
1 ripe avocado
½ cup Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
¼ cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp chives or green onions
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
2–3 tbsp water (to thin)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
1. In a blender/food processor, combine avocado, yogurt, basil, parsley, chives, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust consistency with water as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, add pasta, spinach, cucumber, tomatoes, snap peas, avocado, and green onions.
2. Toss with dressing until evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle with nuts/seeds and cheese before serving.
Notes & Tips
For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Swap pasta for quinoa or farro for a lighter grain salad.
Dressing can be made ahead and kept in fridge up to 2 days.
For meal prep → store salad and dressing separately.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use vegan yogurt and skip the cheese (or use vegan cheese).
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
Best eaten within 2 days (avocado may brown slightly).
Q: Can I use store-bought green goddess dressing?
Absolutely — but homemade adds fresher flavor and creaminess.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 5 g