Save A vibrant, nutrient-packed pasta salad featuring a creamy green goddess dressing, crisp vegetables, and protein-rich ingredients perfect for festive gatherings or a healthy meal any time.
This salad has become a staple at my holiday parties because everyone loves its fresh flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Protein: 250 g (9 oz) whole wheat or chickpea pasta, 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) chickpeas drained and rinsed, 200 g (7 oz) cooked edamame beans (shelled)
- Vegetables: 1 small cucumber diced, 1 cup baby spinach roughly chopped, 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1 small avocado diced, 2 spring onions thinly sliced, 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- Green Goddess Dressing: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative, 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 clove garlic minced, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup fresh chives, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh basil, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chickpeas, edamame, cucumber, spinach, cherry tomatoes, avocado, spring onions, parsley, and basil.
- Step 3:
- Prepare the dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, chives, parsley, and basil. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Pour the green goddess dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Step 6:
- Serve garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Save My family always asks for this salad at every gathering since it combines comfort with nutrition perfectly.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, large mixing bowl, blender or food processor, knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy Greek yogurt mayonnaise gluten wheat pasta soy edamame possible in mayonnaise yogurt eggs mayonnaise. For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free vegan use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise. Always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 420 Total Fat 16 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 19 g per serving.
Save Enjoy this healthy and delicious pasta salad that brings color and nutrients to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for this salad?
Whole wheat or chickpea pasta adds wholesome texture and boosts protein content, fitting well with the dish's fresh ingredients.
- → Can the dressing be made dairy-free?
Yes, substituting Greek yogurt and mayo with plant-based alternatives keeps the dressing creamy without dairy.
- → How to add extra crunch to this salad?
Sprinkling toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top provides a delightful crunchy contrast.
- → Is it possible to swap the protein sources?
Chickpeas can be replaced with grilled chicken or tofu, adapting the dish to various dietary preferences.
- → What herbs enhance the green goddess dressing?
Fresh parsley, basil, and chives contribute bright, aromatic notes that define the dressing’s flavor.
- → Should the salad be served immediately or chilled?
Chilling the salad at least 15 minutes before serving helps meld flavors and improve taste.