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Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

5 from 78 reviews

This refreshing Green Goddess Pasta Salad combines al dente rotini pasta with a creamy, herb-infused dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and fresh herbs. Tossed with crisp vegetables like cucumber, celery, green peas, and creamy avocado, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, it makes a perfect chilled side dish for warm days or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces rotini pasta

Green Goddess Dressing

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup celery, sliced
  • 1/2 cup green peas
  • 1/2 cup avocado, diced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it completely. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped parsley, chives, basil, tarragon, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend or whisk until the dressing is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta along with diced cucumber, sliced celery, green peas, and diced avocado. Pour the prepared green goddess dressing over the mixture.
  4. Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together, ensuring that the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing for consistent flavor throughout.
  5. Add Cheese and Chill: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly again. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled for the best taste.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
  • Make sure to cool the pasta completely before mixing to prevent sogginess.
  • The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and kept refrigerated.
  • Feel free to add other fresh herbs or vegetables according to your preference.
  • This salad is best served chilled to enhance the fresh flavors.

Keywords: Green Goddess Pasta Salad, creamy pasta salad, herb pasta salad, rotini salad, vegetarian pasta salad, chilled pasta salad