Green Goddess Pasta Salad is the stuff Summer Recipe dreams are made of! This healthy Pasta Salad Recipe is full of flavor and oh so easy to throw together. Loaded with asparagus, peas, chickpeas, pine nuts, and the ultimate green goddess dressing (made with the BEST PESTO), this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of pesto and mayonnaise creates a creamy dressing that elevates the fresh vegetables and pasta.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish, main course, or even a light snack. It’s great for any occasion!
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber from peas and chickpeas, plus vitamins from asparagus, this salad is both delicious and healthy.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge for an even tastier meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful Green Goddess Pasta Salad, you will need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Measuring cups: Ensure accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb DeLallo Gemelli Pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
For the Dressing
- 6.35 ounce jar DeLallo Simply Pesto Basil Pesto
- 1/2 cup Real Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For the Salad
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas (cooked according to package instructions)
- 2 cups steamed asparagus (chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups chickpeas (drained)
- 3/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
How to Make Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- While the pasta is cooking, stir together the pesto and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine hot pasta with the pesto mixture.
- Add sea salt, peas, chopped asparagus, chickpeas, and pine nuts.
- Gently stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 4: Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped chives before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Green Goddess Pasta Salad!
How to Serve Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad can fit any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
As a Side Dish
- Serve this pasta salad alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a well-rounded meal.
- Pair it with roasted vegetables for a healthy and colorful plate.
As a Main Course
- Enjoy it as a light lunch by adding extra protein, such as grilled shrimp or chickpeas.
- Top it with avocado slices for an added creamy texture and healthy fats.
For Meal Prep
- Divide the salad into individual containers to enjoy throughout the week.
- Pair with whole grain crackers for a quick snack option.
At Picnics or Potlucks
- Bring this salad to share at gatherings; its fresh flavors will impress everyone.
- Make it ahead of time; it tastes even better after marinating in the dressing overnight.
How to Perfect Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Creating the ideal Green Goddess Pasta Salad involves a few key tricks. These tips will help ensure that your pasta salad is bursting with flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies like asparagus and peas enhance the dish’s taste and nutritional value.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed for balance.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch.
- Serve with Extra Dressing: Keep some dressing on the side for those who prefer extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Pairing your Green Goddess Pasta Salad with complementary side dishes can create a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated and grilled chicken skewers provide a tasty protein boost.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until crisp adds depth and color.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread pairs perfectly, providing a satisfying crunch alongside the pasta.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a nice contrast in flavors while remaining light.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the pasta.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs is nutritious and enhances your meal’s health factor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Green Goddess Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can enhance the dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or seasoning can make your pasta salad bland. Always taste and adjust as you mix in the ingredients.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely for al dente texture.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using hot pasta with cold ingredients can affect the overall experience. Let your cooked pasta cool slightly before mixing.
- Using low-quality pesto: A mediocre pesto can dull the flavor of your salad. Opt for a high-quality pesto for rich taste.
- Forgetting freshness: Neglecting fresh herbs like chives can take away from the dish’s brightness. Always add fresh herbs just before serving for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The salad is best consumed within 3-5 days.
Freezing Green Goddess Pasta Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within a month.
Reheating Green Goddess Pasta Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet over medium heat, stir until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Green Goddess Pasta Salad:
Can I customize my Green Goddess Pasta Salad?
Yes! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes based on your preference.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and ensure your pesto is dairy-free.
What can I serve with Green Goddess Pasta Salad?
This versatile dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
How long does Green Goddess Pasta Salad last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, it will last for 3-5 days.
Final Thoughts
Green Goddess Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this salad shines at summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch!
Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Indulge in the vibrant and refreshing Green Goddess Pasta Salad, a perfect summer dish that bursts with flavor and nutrition! This pasta salad features a delightful combination of al dente gemelli pasta, crisp asparagus, sweet peas, protein-packed chickpeas, and crunchy pine nuts. Tossed in a creamy green goddess dressing made with rich basil pesto, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, preparing a barbecue, or simply looking for a light weeknight dinner, this salad is sure to impress. With its nutritious ingredients and satisfying flavors, it’s a wholesome addition to any meal!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb DeLallo Gemelli Pasta
- 6.35 oz jar DeLallo Simply Pesto Basil Pesto
- 1/2 cup Real Mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas
- 2 cups steamed asparagus (chopped)
- 1 1/2 cups chickpeas (drained)
- 3/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pesto and mayonnaise until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix hot pasta with the pesto dressing.
- Add salt, peas, chopped asparagus, chickpeas, and pine nuts. Stir gently until well combined.
- Sprinkle with fresh chives before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg