Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is sure to become your go-to summer dish. Picture this: a colorful, vibrant medley of fresh seasonal vegetables and smooth, creamy dressing mixed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s like a celebration in a bowl! Whether you’re prepping for a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or just want a light, refreshing meal, this salad covers all bases. The creamy dressing is dairy-free, complementing the crisp veggies and adding dynamism to every bite. Trust me, once you serve this to friends and family, they’ll be asking for seconds. Plus, it’s straightforward to whip up, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Get ready to enjoy a hearty, healthy dish that embodies the essence of summer!

Why This Recipe Works

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad truly shines with its fresh, seasonal produce. You can use vibrant colors and flavors, celebrating what nature offers. The dressing is creamy yet dairy-free, allowing the pasta to shine without overwhelming it. Moreover, the unique combination of textures—think crunchy veggies and tender pasta—delivers a satisfying bite every time. Each ingredient is not just there to shine individually; together, they create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a refreshing take on pasta salad that won’t weigh you down, making it perfect for those warm, sunny afternoons.

Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Imagine bringing this salad to your next summer gathering. Its vibrant colors don’t just catch the eye; they signal deliciousness. Plus, it’s not just a pretty dish; it’s vegan and can easily adapt to various diets. People with dietary preferences aren’t left out because with a few tweaks, everyone can enjoy it. You’ll also love how easy it is to prepare. In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a whole meal that feels wholesome. Summer meals should be effortless, and this salad makes that happen without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your salad stand out:

• 16 ounces dry pasta (gluten-free if need be)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 32 ounces canned garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed (that’s 2 cans)
• 1 ½ cups snap peas, cut into ½-inch pieces
• 2 Persian cucumbers, quartered and sliced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• ½ watermelon radish, quartered and sliced (or 3-4 red radishes, sliced)
• ¾ cup coconut yogurt (check notes for substitutions)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 packed cup roughly chopped fresh parsley (about ½ bunch)
• 3 green onions trimmed into 1-inch pieces (or substitute with 1 small shallot)
• 1 clove garlic
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

How to Cook the Pasta with Asparagus

Bring Water to a Boil

Start your culinary journey by filling a large pot with water and adding kosher salt. Next, bring it to a roaring boil. Waiting for the water to bubble away may seem tedious, but this step is crucial. Think of it as the prep time before a thrilling adventure.

Cook the Pasta

Once the water is boiling, toss in the dry pasta. Cook it following the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Note that every brand varies slightly, so do check the package.

Add Asparagus

Here’s a nifty trick: for the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the chopped asparagus to the pot. This method allows the asparagus to cook just enough without losing its crunch. After everything is cooked, drain the pasta and asparagus, then rinse them under cold water. It’s all about cooling down and stopping the cooking process, which keeps that delightful texture intact.

How to Make the Green Goddess Dressing

Blend Ingredients

Now that your pasta and asparagus are ready, let’s focus on that fabulous dressing! Grab your blender and combine the coconut yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, basil, parsley, green onion, garlic, and kosher salt. Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor that makes this dressing sing.

Blend Until Smooth

Blend everything on high for about 45 to 60 seconds until it transforms into a creamy, luscious dressing. Once these ingredients meld together, you might find yourself wanting to taste it right away. Go ahead and give it a try, but remember—there’s still more to create!

How to Combine the Salad Ingredients

Mix Pasta with Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta and asparagus with the garbanzo beans, snap peas, cucumbers, green onions, and radish. Toss everything gently, ensuring even distribution. The sight of these colorful ingredients together is a feast in itself!

Add the Dressing

Now it’s time to bring your meal together. Pour the green goddess dressing over your colorful salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Each piece should feel the dressing’s creamy goodness.

Season and Serve

Finally, taste your masterpiece. You may find that a sprinkle of extra salt and pepper elevates the dish. Divide it among serving bowls and serve immediately, or let your guests give their own portions a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Green Goddess Pasta Salad with grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins. These additional elements offer a balanced, complete meal. A side of crusty bread enhances the experience, and if you’re feeling fancy, a chilled white wine adds the perfect finishing touch.

Tips for Success

For the best flavor, always use fresh, seasonal vegetables. If you can, chill the salad for an hour before serving. This little step allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for a burst of color. If you want to swap out the chickpeas, consider using edamame or lentils, both great protein alternatives.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To enjoy it at its best, consume within 5 days. However, trust me, leftovers might not last that long!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for flavors to intensify. Just mix the dressing right before you’re ready to serve for that fresh taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta.

Can I use a different dressing?

You bet! Feel free to swap the green goddess dressing for your favorite vinaigrette or any dressing you love.

What can I substitute for coconut yogurt?

Silken tofu or dairy-free sour cream works well as alternatives.

How do I make this recipe more filling?

To make it heartier, add protein sources like grilled tofu, tempeh, or quinoa.

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of summer flavors, nutritious ingredients, and festive gatherings. With the perfect blend of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Embrace the freshness, and let each bite transport you to a garden party or picnic under the sun. Enjoy preparing this healthy delight, and transform your next meal into a flavor-rich experience!

Print