Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe: The Ultimate Summer Dish

When it comes to summer recipes, few dishes can compete with the vibrant, fresh, and flavorful Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe. This dish is a celebration of all things green, combining wholesome ingredients like asparagus, peas, chickpeas, and pine nuts with a creamy, herbaceous green goddess dressing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, heading to a potluck, or simply craving a light yet satisfying meal, this Green Goddess Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish!

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient breakdowns, and tips to make it your new go-to summer dish. Let’s get started!

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Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why this Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a must-try:

1. Bursting with Fresh Flavors: The combination of pesto, asparagus, peas, and chives creates a symphony of fresh, herbaceous flavors that scream summer.
2. Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with veggies, chickpeas, and pine nuts, this salad is a great source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
3. Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, main course, or even a guilt-free snack. It’s perfect for any occasion.
4. Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and cook time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: With a 4.61 rating from 191 votes, this recipe is a proven favorite among food lovers.

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Ingredients for Green Goddess Pasta Salad

To make this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb DeLallo Gemelli Pasta: Cooked according to package instructions. Gemelli pasta works perfectly for salads because its twisted shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients.
• 6.35 oz DeLallo Simply Pesto Basil Pesto: The star of the green goddess dressing, this pesto adds a rich, herbaceous flavor.
• ½ cup Real Mayonnaise: Combines with the pesto to create a creamy, luscious dressing.
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
• 1 ½ cups Frozen Peas: Cooked according to package instructions. Peas add a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 cups Steamed Asparagus: Chopped into bite-sized pieces. Asparagus brings a fresh, slightly crunchy texture.
• 1 ½ cups Chickpeas: Drained and rinsed. Chickpeas add protein and a satisfying bite.
• ¾ cup Pine Nuts: Toasted for a nutty, buttery flavor and a delightful crunch.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Chopped Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the DeLallo Gemelli Pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine the DeLallo Simply Pesto Basil Pesto and real mayonnaise.
2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, green goddess dressing, sea salt, cooked peas, steamed asparagus, chickpeas, and pine nuts.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle the fresh chopped chives on top for a finishing touch.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates.
2. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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The History of Green Goddess Dressing

The Green Goddess Dressing is the star of this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe, and its origins are as rich as its flavor. This iconic dressing dates back to the 1920s, when it was created at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. The story goes that the hotel’s executive chef, Philip Roemer, invented the dressing as a tribute to actor George Arliss, who was staying at the hotel while performing in a play called The Green Goddess. The play was a hit, and so was the dressing!

Originally, the dressing was a blend of mayonnaise, anchovies, parsley, tarragon, chives, and vinegar. Over the years, it has evolved to include variations like the one in this recipe, which uses pesto as a base. The vibrant green color and herbaceous flavor make it a perfect match for pasta salads, especially during the summer months. The dressing’s versatility has made it a staple in American cuisine, appearing in everything from salads to dips and even as a marinade for grilled meats.

In this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe, the dressing takes on a modern twist by combining basil pesto with mayonnaise for a creamy, flavorful coating that clings to every bite of pasta and veggie. The addition of fresh chives adds a subtle onion flavor, tying the dish together beautifully. Whether you’re a fan of traditional recipes or love experimenting with new flavors, this dressing is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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 Why Pasta Salads Are Perfect for Summer

Pasta salads are a summer essential, and this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is no exception. There’s something about the combination of chilled pasta, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing that screams summer. One of the best things about pasta salads is their versatility. They can be served as a side dish at a barbecue, a main course for a light lunch, or even as a snack straight from the fridge.

Another reason pasta salads are perfect for summer is their make-ahead convenience. Unlike hot dishes that need to be served immediately, pasta salads can be prepared hours—or even a day—in advance. This makes them ideal for busy summer days when you’d rather spend time outdoors than in the kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to transport, making them a go-to option for picnics, potlucks, and beach days.

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe takes summer dining to the next level with its vibrant mix of asparagus, peas, chickpeas, and pine nuts. The green goddess dressing adds a refreshing herbaceous note that pairs perfectly with the season’s bounty. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a quiet dinner on the patio, this salad is sure to be a hit.

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 Tips for Customizing Your Green Goddess Pasta Salad

One of the best things about this Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own.

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative. There are many great options available, from rice-based pasta to chickpea pasta, which adds an extra boost of protein. If you’re looking to reduce carbs, you can even use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice as a base.

To make this recipe vegan, replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and ensure the pesto is vegan-friendly (some brands contain cheese). You can also add tofu or tempeh for extra protein.

If you’re not a fan of pine nuts, try using slivered almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds instead. These alternatives still provide a satisfying crunch and pair well with the other ingredients. For added flavor, consider tossing in some crumbled feta or goat cheese, or adding a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

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Nutritional Information

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 556kcal
• Carbohydrates: 59g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 7mg
• Sodium: 597mg
• Potassium: 425mg
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 6g
• Vitamin A: 930IU
• Vitamin C: 13.1mg
• Calcium: 80mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While Gemelli pasta works wonderfully, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative, and ensure the pesto is vegan-friendly.

What can I substitute for pine nuts?

If you don’t have pine nuts, you can use slivered almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.

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Why This Recipe Works for Every Occasion

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a variety of occasions:

• Summer BBQs: Pair it with grilled meats or veggie burgers for a complete meal.
• Potlucks: It’s easy to transport and always a hit with crowds.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch at the beginning of the week for quick, healthy lunches.
• Light Dinners: Enjoy it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

 

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Final Thoughts

The Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe is a true summer staple that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients with a creamy, flavorful dressing. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to make the ultimate summer dish!