Vegan Green Goddess Dressing RECIPE

I don't know about you, but there is nothing more that I want on a hot summer day than to dig into a cold and flavorful pasta salad.

If you've never heard of a green goddess dressing before, it is basically a flavorful sauce made from a blend of fresh herbs and spices.

This version is 100% vegan that is made with avocado and other fresh herbs.

I love adding avocado because it adds a natural creaminess and also additional nutrients.

It works great as a dip, a salad dressing, or as a sauce for your pasta salad.

Why you'll love this recipe:

Dressing Ingredients

Now it's not really a pasta salad without a flavorful sauce...

Avocado

The star of the show, avocados which creates the creamy and rich texture to the dressing.

Fresh Herbs

A medley of fresh herbs, such as basil, sage, and fennel fronds which gives this pasta salad all of that flavor!

Spinach

I love adding spinach because it not only enhances the green color of the dressing but also adds some extra nutrients.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to add a zesty brightness to the dressing which balances the richness of the avocado.

Garlic

Garlic brings a subtle kick to the dressing, complementing the other flavors perfectly.

Pasta

I love cavatappi because of the fun texture and shape. It also works great in this instant pot pasta but feel free to choose your favorite pasta variety, such as fusilli or bowtie, to create the base of the salad.

Vegetables

I used artichoke hearts and jarred roasted bell peppers but feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, green peas, or roasted zucchini.

I won't keep you waiting so here is the recipe...

Print Recipe

Vegan Green Goddess Pasta Salad (with Avocado)

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad with avocado is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings together the creaminess of avocados, the freshness of herbs, and spinach.

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Cook Time10 minutes mins

Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: easy salad, easy sauce recipe, easy snacks

Servings: 2 people

Calories: 272kcal

Author: Wan Na Chun

Ingredients

• ½ ripe avocado
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup mixed fresh herbs such as basil, sage, parsley, and chives
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon dried garlic
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup packed spinach leaves
• 8 oz cooked pasta
• 1 cup vegetables of choice (zucchini, roasted bell pepper, artichoke hearts, snap peas)

Instructions

Dressing Instructions:

• In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocado (peeled and pitted) along with the mixed fresh herbs, which could include basil, parsley, sage, chives.
• Add water, apple cider vinegar, salt, and dried garlic
• Blend all the ingredients until smooth. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Pasta Cooking Instructions:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice (such as medium shells, gemelli, farfalle, penne, orecchiette, rigatoni, or fusilli).
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of tenderness.
• Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This will help stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from becoming too soft.

Assemble:

• Combine cooked pasta, vegetables of choice (I used artichoke hearts and roasted bell peppers) along with sauce and mix well until combined.

Notes

Fresh Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different combinations of fresh herbs to create a dressing that suits your taste preferences. Try adding cilantro, dill, or mint for unique flavor twists.

Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can adjust the water quantity. Add a little more water if you want a thinner consistency or reduce the water amount for a thicker and richer dressing.

Seasoning and Spices: The dressing can be customized to your liking by adding other spices or seasonings. Consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat or a dash of paprika for smokiness.

Customize with Vegetables: While the recipe includes spinach, feel free to add other vegetables to the mix. Use an array of colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or any of your favorites.

Protein Options: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost, making the salad a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.

Storage: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dressing may slightly darken due to the avocados, but it will still be delicious.

Nutrition

Calories: 272kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 610mg | Potassium: 475mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2744IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 3mg

Make It Yours

If you want to enhance the creaminess and umami flavors of the dish, add some Parmesan cheese on top.

Experiment with various herbs and spices such as mint, chives, onion powder, or even red pepper flakes for additional heat.

Add texture with slivered almonds, crushed pistachios, or toasted pinenuts.

Add grilled chicken slices or shrimp to the salad for additional protein.

Add chopped sundried tomatoes for an additional boost of umami.

Top with lemon zest for additional freshness.

This pasta salad recipe is the perfect weeknight summer lunch or dinner that is refreshing and flavorful.

This dressing is also perfect if you have someone in the family who doesn't like vegetables because it contains hidden veggies.

If you want more easy and healthy recipes, you'll love these.