This Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that features pasta, crunchy veggies, and a creamy green dressing. It’s perfect for lunch or a picnic!
I love how colorful it looks on the table, and who can resist a salad with green goddess dressing? Sometimes, I even add extra herbs for a flavor boost—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using pasta shells for their fun shape and ability to hold the dressing well. If you want something different, rotini or farfalle would also work nicely.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a lovely crunch, but you can use snap peas or green beans if you can’t find asparagus. Frozen asparagus tips are also a good alternative.
Fennel: Fennel adds a subtle anise flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using thinly sliced celery instead for that crunch without the unique taste.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley are essential for the dressing. If you want a twist, cilantro or mint can add a fresh note too!
Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and a protein boost. If you’re looking for a lighter option, opt for more mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt.
How Do You Make Creamy Dressing Without it Being Too Thick?
Getting the perfect consistency for the green goddess dressing is important. Here’s how to make it creamy yet spreadable:
- Start by measuring out all your dressing ingredients first. This makes blending easier.
- Use a blender for a smooth texture. You can also use a food processor if that’s what you have!
- If the dressing is too thick after blending, gradually add a bit of water or extra olive oil until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste as you go! You can always add more lemon juice for acidity or salt for flavor.
With these tips, your pasta salad will be a hit every time! Enjoy making this bright and fresh dish.
How to Make Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 cup asparagus tips, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
For the Green Goddess Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So in total, you should set aside about 50 minutes to get this ready and let the flavors blend perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Veggies:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta shells and cook them until al dente, following the package instructions. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the green peas and asparagus tips to cook them alongside the pasta. This way, everything will be tender but still bright and fresh!
2. Drain and Cool:
Once everything is cooked, drain the pasta, peas, and asparagus in a colander. To stop the cooking process, run cold water over them for a minute or so. This also helps cool down your ingredients for the salad. Allow it to drain well while you make the dressing.
3. Blend the Dressing:
In a blender or food processor, add the fresh basil, parsley, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend this mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste it! Adjust any seasoning if needed—more lemon juice for tanginess or more salt for flavor.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peas, asparagus, sliced fennel, and green olives. Stir gently to mix everything together.
5. Add the Dressing:
Pour the creamy green goddess dressing over your pasta mixture. Toss everything together until well-coated—every bite should be deliciously creamy!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to meld together perfectly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a perfect side dish or a light meal on its own. Enjoy your fresh and tasty Green Goddess Pasta Salad!
FAQ for Easy Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great in this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, farfalle, or penne. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this pasta salad vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with vegan alternatives like cashew cream or store-bought vegan mayo. You can also add a bit of avocado for creaminess!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add more veggies! Cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or cucumbers would be great additions for extra crunch and flavor. Just chop them up and mix them in with the other ingredients.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some dressing, so you can add a little extra dressing or a splash of olive oil when you reheat it or serve it again!
