Green Goddess Pasta Salad (Easy and Flavorful)

This Green Goddess Pasta Salad is the perfect side dish for summer! Filled with fresh vegetables and topped with a tangy, herbaceous homemade dressing, this creamy pasta salad is loaded with flavor. Made with peas, asparagus, Persian cucumbers, mozzarella pearls, and fresh herbs, it’s a delicious choice for BBQs, picnics, potlucks, and easy lunches.

When summer rolls around, pasta salad recipes are always a convenient option. This Green Goddess Pasta Salad brings together tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing for a fresh, satisfying dish.

Delicious as a side dish for a summer barbecue or potluck, this pasta salad is also great as a make-ahead lunch or dinner served alongside your favorite protein, such as chicken, steak, or seafood. For more seasonal inspiration, explore these 25 BBQ salads for summer.

Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This easy summer pasta salad is full of fresh flavors and textures. The creamy dressing coats the pasta, while the asparagus, peas, cucumbers, and mozzarella create a colorful combination.

• Fresh and flavorful: Parsley, chives, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard give the dressing its distinctive herbaceous taste.
• Loaded with vegetables: Peas, asparagus, and Persian cucumbers provide freshness and texture.
• Easy to prepare: The original recipe lists 10 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cooking time.
• Perfect for gatherings: Serve it at BBQs, picnics, potlucks, or summer parties.
• Make-ahead friendly: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, according to the original recipe.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or pair it with protein for lunch or dinner.

If you enjoy fresh, colorful pasta dishes, try our California Cobb Pasta Salad for another satisfying summer option.

Green Goddess Pasta Salad Ingredients

You only need a few familiar ingredients to make this fresh, flavorful pasta salad. The vegetables add texture, while the homemade dressing brings everything together.

• 16 ounces dried pasta: Shells, penne, or farfalle all work well.
• 1 cup peas: Fresh or frozen peas can be used.
• ½ pound asparagus: Cut into 1-inch pieces.
• 4 Persian cucumbers: Sliced for a crisp, refreshing texture.
• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls: Add a mild, creamy element to the salad.

For the Green Goddess Dressing

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tablespoons chives
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

The Greek yogurt creates a creamy base, while parsley and chives provide the fresh green color and herbal flavor. Red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard give the dressing its tangy character.

For another pasta salad with a different combination of flavors and ingredients, explore our Tortellini Antipasto Pasta Salad.

Cooking Tips and Variations

Choose Your Favorite Pasta Shape

Feel free to use your favorite pasta shapes. Shells are especially good for pasta salad with peas because the peas can nestle inside the shells for a flavorful bite.

Other short pasta shapes that catch the dressing also work well, including rigatoni, penne, fusilli, gemelli, and orecchiette.

Use Fresh or Frozen Peas

Fresh or frozen peas both work well in this recipe. Use whichever you prefer or have available.

If you enjoy pasta salads featuring peas, our Shell Macaroni Salad with Peas is another recipe worth trying.

Try Different Cheeses

Instead of mozzarella pearls, you can use goat cheese, feta, or Parmesan. Each option brings a different flavor and texture to the finished salad.

Add More Green Vegetables

Add or substitute your favorite green vegetables, including broccoli, fresh snap peas, fresh spinach, or green olives. These optional variations can help you adjust the salad to your preferences.

Customize the Green Goddess Dressing

The original dressing is made with Greek yogurt, but you can use mayonnaise or sour cream if you prefer a different creamy base.

You can also experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil, mint, oregano, or a clove of garlic are suggested options for changing the flavor.

How to Make Green Goddess Pasta Salad

This pasta salad comes together in three main steps: cook the pasta and vegetables, prepare the creamy green goddess dressing, and toss everything together.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Vegetables

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.

When there are 2 minutes remaining, add the sliced asparagus and peas to the pot of boiling water with the pasta.

Drain the pasta and vegetables in a large colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large serving bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing. Add the Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to a food processor or blender.

Blend until smooth. The original ingredient list also includes fresh lemon juice, although the supplied instructions do not specify when to add it.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta Salad

Add the sliced Persian cucumbers and mozzarella pearls to the pasta and vegetable mixture.

Drizzle the green goddess dressing over the pasta and toss well to combine. Serve as desired.

The original recipe lists 10 minutes of preparation and 12 minutes of cooking, for a total of 22 minutes.

What to Serve with Green Goddess Pasta Salad

Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a versatile side dish for summer meals. Its bright, creamy herb dressing pairs especially well with grilled chicken, steak, seafood, and other savory dishes.

• Grilled chicken: A simple protein that pairs naturally with the tangy dressing.
• Steak: The fresh vegetables provide a contrast to grilled beef.
• Seafood: Shrimp or fish complements the lemon and herb flavors.
• Sandwiches: A practical combination for lunches and picnics.
• Other fresh salads: Add variety to a summer barbecue or potluck table.

For an easy dinner combination, serve the pasta salad with Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls. The savory chicken works nicely with the fresh herb dressing.

If you’re planning a seafood-centered summer menu, try our Mexican Shrimp Salad for another colorful, protein-rich dish.

For extra crunch and freshness, add Cucumber Sweet Pepper Salad to the table. Its crisp vegetables make a refreshing accompaniment to creamy pasta dishes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store leftover Green Goddess Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, as stated in the original recipe.

Because the salad contains cooked pasta, mozzarella, and a Greek yogurt-based dressing, keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve it.

For outdoor gatherings, follow the FoodSafety.gov food safety recommendations. Refrigerate perishable dishes promptly and avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods.

If you’re preparing a larger summer menu, consider making another variety such as our Southwest Pasta Salad. The two dishes provide different flavor profiles for guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Green Goddess Pasta Salad made of?

This recipe includes dried pasta, peas, asparagus, Persian cucumbers, and mozzarella pearls. The creamy dressing is made with Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.

Can I make Green Goddess Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes. This pasta salad works well for make-ahead meals. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What is the best pasta for Green Goddess Pasta Salad?

Short pasta shapes such as shells, penne, and farfalle work well. Fusilli, gemelli, rigatoni, and orecchiette are also good choices because they catch the creamy dressing.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt in the dressing?

Yes. The original recipe suggests mayonnaise or sour cream as alternatives. These substitutions will change the dressing’s flavor and texture.

How long does Green Goddess Pasta Salad last in the refrigerator?

According to the original recipe, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

More Pasta Salad Recipes

If you enjoy this Green Goddess Pasta Salad, there are plenty of other fresh recipes to add to your summer menu.

Our Really Good Pasta Salad is another option for summer entertaining. For a different take on a classic, try the Chicken Club Pasta Salad, featuring familiar chicken club flavors in pasta salad form.

For another simple and versatile choice, explore our Easy Pasta Salad, a convenient option for busy weeknights and gatherings.

Fresh, creamy, and full of herbs and vegetables, Green Goddess Pasta Salad is a delicious addition to your summer meal rotation. Serve it as a side dish, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it for lunch alongside your favorite protein.