Green Spaghetti

Green spaghetti is a feast for the eyes and the palate. This bold and colorful pasta dish combines tender spaghetti with a creamy, herbaceous green sauce made from roasted poblano peppers, fresh greens, and aromatic garlic. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, green spaghetti is a standout option.

What makes it even better is its versatility. You can adjust the spice level, add your favorite protein, or swap out ingredients to suit your taste. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.

What Is Green Spaghetti?

A Pasta Dish with a Twist

Green spaghetti is a unique pasta dish that gets its vibrant color from a green sauce made with ingredients like roasted poblano peppers, spinach, cilantro, or avocado. Popular in Mexican and Italian-inspired cuisines, this dish combines creamy textures with fresh, earthy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients.
• Quick to Prepare: A flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable: Add protein, adjust the spice, or try different greens for a new twist.

Ingredients for Green Spaghetti

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this vibrant and flavorful dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Spaghetti	12 oz	Can substitute with fettuccine or linguine
Poblano Peppers	2	Roasted and peeled for smoky flavor
Fresh Cilantro or Spinach	1 cup	Adds color and flavor
Garlic Cloves	2–3	Adds depth to the sauce
Cream or Greek Yogurt	½ cup	For a creamy texture
Parmesan Cheese	½ cup	Optional, for garnish
Olive Oil	2 tbsp	Enhances the sauce
Salt and Pepper	To taste	Adjust to preference

How to Make Green Spaghetti

Making green spaghetti is a simple process that results in a vibrant and delicious dish. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this flavorful pasta:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Roast the Poblano Peppers

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler or use an open flame on a gas stove.
2. Place the poblano peppers directly on the flame or on a baking sheet under the broiler.
3. Roast until the skin is charred and blistered on all sides.
4. Transfer the peppers to a sealed plastic bag or a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes.
5. Peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds and stems, and set the peppers aside.

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti.

Make the Green Sauce

1. In a blender or food processor, combine:
   • The roasted poblano peppers.
   • Fresh cilantro or spinach.
   • Garlic cloves.
   • Cream or Greek yogurt.
   • Olive oil.
   • Half of the reserved pasta water.
2. Blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more pasta water if needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the green sauce over medium heat.
2. To ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss.
3. Let the flavors combine by cooking for one to two minutes.

Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the green spaghetti and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Perfect Green Spaghetti

Here are some helpful tips to make your green spaghetti taste amazing every time:

1. Customize the Greens

• Options: Substitute cilantro or spinach with kale, arugula, or parsley for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Combination: Mix multiple greens for a complex, layered taste.

2. Adjust the Heat Level

• Spicier Sauce: Add a roasted jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes to the blender for extra heat.
• Milder Sauce: Use bell peppers instead of poblanos for a milder, sweeter sauce.

3. Perfect the Sauce Consistency

• Creamier Sauce: Add more cream or a splash of milk to make the sauce richer.
• Thinner Sauce: Use additional reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce as needed.

4. Add Protein for a Complete Meal

• Meat Options: Pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for added protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Add roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty plant-based addition.

5. Don’t Skip the Garnishes

• Cheese: Grated Parmesan or crumbled queso fresco adds a tangy richness.
• Herbs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

6. Make It Ahead

• Prep the Sauce: Prepare the green sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before tossing with pasta.

Serving Suggestions for Green Spaghetti

Green spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, from a comforting dinner to a vibrant addition to a party spread. Here are some creative serving ideas:

1. As a Standalone Dish

• Classic Presentation: Serve the green spaghetti with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a simple yet elegant meal.
• Add a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to complement the creamy sauce.

2. For a Party Spread

• Family-Style Platter: Arrange the green spaghetti on a large serving platter and garnish with colorful toppings like roasted cherry tomatoes or sliced avocado for an eye-catching centerpiece.
• Accompaniments: Serve alongside a charcuterie board, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete spread.

3. As a Side Dish

• With Grilled Meats: Pair green spaghetti with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a balanced meal.
• Seafood Pairing: Serve alongside shrimp scampi or seared scallops for a luxurious touch.

4. Make It Kid-Friendly

• Fun Presentation: Twist small portions of green spaghetti into “nests” and top with a meatball or a small piece of chicken for a playful look.
• Cheese Lovers: Add extra shredded cheese to make it more appealing to kids who love cheesy pasta dishes.

5. Elevate the Experience

• Wine Pairing: Complement the fresh flavors with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Non-Alcoholic Option: Pair with a citrus-infused sparkling water or a chilled cucumber lemonade for a refreshing contrast.

FAQs About Green Spaghetti

Here are answers to common questions about green spaghetti to help you understand and enjoy this vibrant dish:

How Many Calories Are in a Cup of Green Spaghetti?

The calorie count in a cup of green spaghetti depends on the ingredients used. On average:

• A cup of green spaghetti made with a cream-based sauce typically has 250–350 calories, depending on the amount of cream and cheese.
• For a lighter version using yogurt or less oil, the calorie count can drop to 150–200 calories.
• Adding proteins like chicken or shrimp will increase the total calories.

Why Is Spaghetti Squash Green?

Spaghetti squash is green when it is unripe. As it matures, the outer skin changes to a pale yellow or golden color, indicating it’s ready to eat. If your spaghetti squash is green, let it ripen for a few days at room temperature.

How Do You Make Green Spaghetti Sensory Play?

Green spaghetti can be turned into a fun sensory activity for kids! Here’s how:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil plain spaghetti until tender, then drain and let it cool.
2. Add Color: Toss the pasta with a few drops of food coloring (green works best) and a tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking.
3. Set Up Play: Place the colorful spaghetti in a large tray or sensory bin and let kids explore the texture, color, and movement of the pasta.

How Do You Reheat Green Spaghetti?

To reheat green spaghetti while preserving its flavor and texture:

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over low heat, add the spaghetti with a splash of water or cream, and toss until heated through.
• Microwave Method: Place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
• Avoid Drying Out: Add a drizzle of olive oil or extra sauce before reheating to keep the pasta moist.

Conclusion: A Colorful Pasta with Bold Flavor

Green spaghetti is more than just a vibrant dish—it’s a versatile and flavorful meal that brings excitement to your table. With its creamy, herbaceous sauce and endless customization options, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, entertaining guests, or exploring a unique twist on traditional pasta.