Green Goddess Pasta Salad – Fresh, Creamy & Packed with Flavor

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If you love a pasta salad that’s both vibrant and indulgent, this Green Goddess Pasta Salad is about to be your new favorite. Al dente pasta is tossed with crisp veggies and coated in a luscious, herb-packed dressing that’s creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh garden flavor. Perfect for lunch, picnics, potlucks, or as a colorful side dish for grilled mains.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh & Wholesome – Packed with herbs, greens, and colorful veggies.
  • Creamy Yet Light – The dressing is rich without being heavy.
  • Versatile – Works as a main or side dish.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Flavors only get better after chilling.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Salad:

  • 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, blanched
  • 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup avocado, cubed
  • ½ cup green onions, sliced
  • ½ cup fresh peas (optional)

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 anchovy fillets (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
  2. Make the Dressing – In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, herbs, lemon juice, garlic, anchovies (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine pasta, cucumber, broccoli, spinach, avocado, green onions, and peas.
  4. Toss & Chill – Pour dressing over the salad, toss gently to coat, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips for the Best Green Goddess Pasta Salad

  • Use Fresh Herbs – They’re the star of the dressing.
  • Add Protein – Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
  • Serve Cold – This salad is best enjoyed chilled.

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a gorgeous fusion of creamy dressing, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. It’s as perfect for a summer picnic as it is for a light, refreshing dinner. 🌿🍋

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