"Green spaghetti" is a visually stunning and flavorful dish that has become increasingly popular. But what exactly is it? This pasta dish blends creamy, herbaceous, and earthy tastes, making it a unique and satisfying meal. Whether you're exploring Mexican-style green spaghetti, the Peruvian version, or a simple homemade recipe, this guide has everything you need to know about green spaghetti, its origins, and how to prepare it.
Craving for Green Spaghetti?
Green spaghetti refers to pasta coated in a green sauce made with ingredients like spinach, poblano peppers, basil, or even avocado. It’s vibrant, nutrient-packed, and versatile, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Popular Variations:
- Mexican Green Spaghetti: A creamy, smoky sauce made with roasted poblano peppers.
- Peruvian Green Spaghetti (Tallarines Verdes): A fresh, herbaceous sauce featuring spinach, basil, and queso fresco.
- Simple Green Spaghetti: A quick and healthy version using avocado, basil, and olive oil.
Simple and Popular Green Spaghetti/Pasta Recipe (Avocado-Based)
This simple and healthy recipe is perfect for a quick meal. Using fresh avocado and basil, it’s creamy without the need for dairy or processed ingredients.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Ripe avocado | 1 large |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, basil, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the avocado sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick (optional).
Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe
This rich and creamy version features roasted poblano peppers, making it a family favorite for gatherings or everyday meals. In case you wonder, poblano peppers are milder than jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Poblano peppers | 3 large |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Milk | ½ cup |
| Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or mozzarella) | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional) | For garnish |
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Roast poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until charred. Peel off the skin and remove seeds.
- Blend the roasted peppers with sour cream, milk, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
- Heat the sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Peruvian Green Spaghetti (Tallarines Verdes)
The Peruvian take on green spaghetti combines Italian influences with local flavors. It’s lighter than the Mexican version, with a focus on fresh spinach and basil.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup |
| Evaporated milk | 1 cup |
| Queso fresco (or feta) | 1 cup |
| Walnuts or pecans | ¼ cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Instructions:
- Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a blender, combine spinach, basil, garlic, queso fresco, evaporated milk, and walnuts. Blend until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss the pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan or extra walnuts and serve hot.
Green Spaghetti: A Dish Worth Making
Green spaghetti combines bold flavors, visual appeal, and endless versatility. Whether you try the Mexican, Peruvian, or simple variation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment with different type of pasta and ingredients to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy creating a meal that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!