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Green Goddess Pasta Salad Recipe

4.9 from 105 reviews

A vibrant and creamy Green Goddess Pasta Salad featuring al dente fusili pasta, tender asparagus, and a flavorful herb-infused Greek yogurt dressing. This refreshing salad is packed with fresh basil, parsley, dill, chives, green olives, chickpeas, and crumbled feta cheese, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish for gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • Kosher salt
  • 1 lb. fusili pasta
  • 8 oz. asparagus, trimmed, cut into 2” pieces on a bias
  • 2 Persian cucumbers, cut into half-moons
  • 1 c. green olives, pitted, halved

Dressing

  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 c. Greek yogurt, preferably whole fat
  • 1/4 c. mayonnaise
  • 1/4 c. shredded Parmesan
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 c. packed fresh basil leaves, plus more for serving (optional)
  • 1/2 c. packed fresh parsley leaves, plus more for serving (optional)
  • 1/4 c. chopped chives, plus more for serving (optional)
  • 1/4 c. packed fresh dill, plus more for serving (optional)
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Kosher salt, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 c. crumbled feta, divided

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta and asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusili pasta according to package directions until al dente, stirring occasionally. Add asparagus pieces to the boiling water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain the pasta and asparagus and let them cool completely.
  2. Make the dressing: In a blender or food processor, pulse garlic, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice until well combined. Add fresh basil, parsley, chives, dill, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Blend until the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Combine salad ingredients: Transfer the cooled pasta and asparagus to a large mixing bowl. Add chickpeas, cucumbers, green olives, and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese. Pour the herb dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to combine.
  4. Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup crumbled feta and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For best results, use whole fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier dressing.
  • The asparagus should be tender yet crisp; do not overcook during boiling.
  • Fresh herbs can be adjusted to your liking or substituted with other favorites like tarragon or mint.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Green Goddess, pasta salad, fusili pasta, asparagus, chickpeas, Greek yogurt dressing, fresh herbs, feta cheese, healthy salad, vegetarian, summer salad