This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a vibrant, nourishing dish that brings together fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a creamy homemade dressing. The blend of basil, parsley, and cilantro creates an aromatic depth, while the lemony dressing adds a zesty, refreshing touch. The variety of textures, from crunchy cucumbers to tender pasta, makes every bite satisfying and flavorful. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is endlessly versatile. Keep it vegan with avocado-based dressing, or add your favorite cheese and protein for extra heartiness. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this dish is a refreshing way to enjoy wholesome, plant-based ingredients!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Green Goddess Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh basil
- ½ cup parsley
- ½ cup cilantro
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dairy-free mayo or ½ large avocado
- ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 4 green onions
Pasta Salad:
- 1 box bow tie pasta (gluten-free or regular)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup chickpeas
- 1 cup arugula, packed
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup pine nuts
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh basil & cracked black pepper to top
Directions:
- Cook pasta and peas according to package instructions. Drain but do not rinse. Stir in a little avocado or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a food processor or high-powered blender, blend all dressing ingredients until smooth. Adjust consistency if needed.
- Allow pasta and peas to cool slightly, then combine all pasta salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until fully coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and cracked black pepper before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: ~350 kcal per serving | Servings: 10
Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Pasta Salad
1. Packed with Nutrients
One of the standout features of this dish is its incredible nutritional profile. It contains a variety of nutrient-dense ingredients that offer a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants:
- Fresh Herbs (Basil, Parsley, Cilantro): These herbs are loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and essential vitamins like vitamin K and vitamin C. They help in detoxifying the body and boosting immunity.
- Leafy Greens (Arugula): Arugula is rich in folate, calcium, and fiber, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Its slightly peppery flavor enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- Vegetables (Cucumbers, Carrots, Tomatoes, Peas): This combination provides a diverse range of phytonutrients that support digestion, heart health, and overall well-being.
- Chickpeas: As a plant-based protein source, chickpeas contribute to satiety while offering fiber, iron, and other essential minerals.
- Pasta: Using gluten-free brown rice pasta ensures that this dish remains light yet fulfilling, providing complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
One of the best things about Green Goddess Pasta Salad is that it takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Unlike traditional pasta dishes that require extended cooking times and multiple steps, this salad can be assembled effortlessly.
You simply cook the pasta and peas, blend the dressing, and mix everything together it’s that simple! Because the dressing is made in a blender or food processor, it comes together in seconds, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
3. Versatile and Customizable
This pasta salad is a blank canvas that allows for endless customization. You can swap out ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen or to suit different dietary needs:
- Make it grain-free: If you’re following a grain-free diet, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles, chickpea pasta, or lentil pasta.
- Add protein: While chickpeas provide plant-based protein, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs for an extra boost.
- Make it cheesier: If you’re not dairy-free, sprinkle some feta cheese, parmesan, or goat cheese on top for a creamy, tangy touch.
- Enhance the crunch: Pine nuts already add texture, but you can include pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or toasted almonds for extra crunch.
- Play with the greens: Instead of arugula, try using baby spinach, kale, or even microgreens to change up the flavor and nutritional benefits.
4. Great for Meal Prep
Because this salad tastes just as good cold as it does fresh, it’s perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The dressing keeps the pasta from drying out, and the flavors intensify over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
To ensure freshness, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it with the pasta salad right before serving. This will prevent the greens from wilting and keep everything crisp and vibrant.
Best Ways to Serve Green Goddess Pasta Salad
This dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions:
- As a Light Main Dish: Because it contains a balance of carbs, healthy fats, and protein, it’s a well-rounded meal on its own. Serve it with a side of warm bread or roasted vegetables for extra heartiness.
- As a Side Dish: This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, salmon, or tofu. It’s also a great addition to a summer BBQ or picnic spread.
- As a Party or Potluck Dish: The vibrant green hues and fresh flavors make it an eye-catching dish for gatherings. Plus, since it’s dairy-free and gluten-free, it’s a great option for guests with dietary restrictions.
- As a Work or School Lunch: Pack it in a meal-prep container for an easy, healthy, and filling lunch on the go.
Tips for Making the Best Green Goddess Pasta Salad
- Use High-Quality Pasta – A good-quality gluten-free pasta (like brown rice or chickpea pasta) will hold its texture and absorb the dressing well. Avoid overcooking, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy.
- Blend the Dressing Until Smooth – To achieve a creamy consistency, blend the dressing ingredients until completely smooth. If needed, add a tablespoon of water or extra olive oil to adjust thickness.
- Allow the Pasta to Cool Slightly – Mixing hot pasta with the greens can cause them to wilt. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before tossing it with the veggies.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Depending on your preference, add more lemon juice for tang, olive oil for richness, or black pepper for spice.
Conclusion:
The Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a perfect fusion of health, convenience, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal, a refreshing summer salad, or a dish that pleases a crowd, this recipe is an excellent choice. It’s nutrient-rich, vibrant, and incredibly easy to customize, making it suitable for all kinds of dietary preferences.
With a creamy, herbaceous dressing and a mix of fresh, crisp veggies, this pasta salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. Plus, since it takes just 20 minutes to make, it’s a fantastic go-to recipe for busy schedules.
