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Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

A fresh pasta salad tossed in a creamy avocado-basil dressing with cherry tomatoes and cucumber — ready in about 20 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Salad, Snack
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Short pasta rotini or fusilli | Notes: —
  • 1 Ripe avocado
  • 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup Plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 Cucumber diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Blender or food processor | Notes: For the dressing
  • 1 Large mixing bowl For tossing the salad

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and cool slightly.
  2. Step 2: Blend avocado, basil, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Tip: Add the dressing gradually — you want the pasta well-coated, not swimming in dressing.
  4. Step 3: Toss the pasta with the dressing until evenly coated.
  5. Step 4: Fold in the cherry tomatoes and diced cucumber.
  6. Step 5: Chill for 30 minutes, or serve immediately.
  7. Tip: Toss the avocado with a little extra lemon juice first if making ahead, to slow down browning.

Notes

Best enjoyed within 24 hours since the avocado dressing is freshest right after mixing. Naturally vegetarian; substitute a plant-based yogurt for a vegan version.