Green Spaghetti Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Classic Pasta

Experience the rich and creamy flavor of this easy green spaghetti recipe, perfect for any family dinner or special occasion.

Introduction

Green spaghetti is a vibrant and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, featuring a creamy green sauce that’s made from a blend of peppers, herbs, and rich dairy. This Mexican-inspired dish brings together fresh ingredients for a comforting and delicious meal that’s sure to impress everyone around the table. Whether you’re looking to jazz up your weekly dinners or impress guests, this green spaghetti recipe will become a household favorite. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that brings the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color to your plate.

What Is Green Spaghetti?

Green spaghetti, also known as Espagueti Verde, is a popular Mexican dish that’s beloved for its vibrant green color and rich, creamy flavor. This dish features a combination of pasta tossed in a velvety green sauce made from poblano peppers, cream, and cheese. Green spaghetti is a fantastic way to bring a unique twist to your pasta game while showcasing the fresh, flavorful ingredients that define Mexican cuisine.

In many households across Mexico, green spaghetti is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or simple weeknight dinners. The main flavor profile comes from roasted poblano peppers, which bring a mild, smoky taste to the creamy sauce, complemented by the tangy notes of cream cheese and the freshness of cilantro.

If you’re wondering what makes green spaghetti so special, it’s all about the sauce. Unlike the typical red or white pasta sauces, this one is green, creamy, and full of depth, offering a unique experience that’s both comforting and surprising. For those who love experimenting with new flavors and colors in their cooking, this green spaghetti recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients for Green Spaghetti Recipe

To make green spaghetti, you’ll need a mix of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s what you need:

Pasta

• 1 pound (16 ounces) spaghetti
• Water for boiling
• Salt

Green Sauce

• 3 large poblano peppers
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 small white onion
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Sliced jalapeño for extra heat

How to Make Green Spaghetti Recipe

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making green spaghetti. The key is in the sauce, which requires roasting the poblano peppers to bring out their smoky flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Poblano Peppers

First, you’ll need to roast the poblano peppers. This step is crucial for developing the deep, smoky flavor that makes this dish stand out.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered.
2. Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel off the skins.
3. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and set the roasted peppers aside.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

While the peppers are roasting, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Green Sauce

The magic of this dish is all in the creamy green sauce:

1. In a blender, combine the roasted poblano peppers, garlic, onion, fresh cilantro, heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth.
2. Blend until smooth, ensuring there are no chunks left.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
4. Pour the blended sauce into the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the green sauce.
2. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the green spaghetti hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh cilantro leaves, or sliced jalapeño for an extra kick. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Green Spaghetti Recipe

1. Roasting the Peppers

Roasting the poblano peppers properly is essential for achieving the best flavor. Make sure they are evenly charred to get that smoky depth.

2. Adjusting the Creaminess

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Alternatively, for an even richer sauce, add more cream cheese.

3. Adding Extra Heat

If you like your food spicy, consider adding a jalapeño or serrano pepper to the sauce blend. This will enhance the overall heat of the dish.

4. Vegetarian Version

To make this dish vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor remains deliciously robust.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an overview of the nutritional content of green spaghetti. Please note that these values are approximate:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 5g

This dish provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making it a filling and satisfying meal option.

Variations of Green Spaghetti

Green Spaghetti with Spinach

For an extra boost of nutrition, add a handful of fresh spinach to the blender when preparing the green sauce. Spinach not only adds nutrients but also enhances the vibrant color.

Vegan Green Spaghetti

For a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. Use vegetable broth to keep it 100% vegan.

Green Spaghetti with Chicken

To add more protein, consider adding grilled or shredded chicken breast to the pasta. This addition makes the dish more substantial and can turn it into a complete meal.

Green Spaghetti with Shrimp

Another delicious variation is adding sautéed shrimp to your green spaghetti. The shrimp adds a wonderful seafood flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy, smoky sauce. Simply cook the shrimp in a bit of olive oil with salt and pepper, then mix it into the pasta before serving.

Green Spaghetti Bake

For a baked version of green spaghetti, transfer the pasta mixed with the green sauce into a baking dish. Top it with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This variation makes for a comforting and cheesy casserole-style dish.

Green Spaghetti with Roasted Vegetables

For a healthy twist, add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to your green spaghetti. The roasted vegetables bring additional texture, flavor, and nutrition, making the dish even more colorful and nutritious.

Green Spaghetti: A Deeper Dive Into Ingredients

Poblano Peppers: The Star Ingredient

Poblano peppers are the key ingredient that gives green spaghetti its characteristic smoky flavor and vibrant color. These mild chili peppers are popular in Mexican cuisine due to their versatility and unique taste. Roasting the poblano peppers brings out their sweetness while adding a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of Poblano Peppers.

Cream Cheese: Adding Tang and Creaminess

The cream cheese in this recipe adds a distinct tangy flavor and contributes to the rich, creamy consistency of the sauce. Its combination with heavy cream ensures the sauce is luxuriously smooth, coating every strand of spaghetti perfectly. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of Cream Cheese.

Cilantro: Freshness and Herbal Notes

Cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the sauce. Its herbal notes balance out the creaminess and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder taste.

Optional Flavor Boosters

• Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime juice can brighten up the green sauce and add a hint of acidity, which cuts through the creaminess.
• Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy, umami flavor without adding more dairy, try sprinkling a tablespoon of nutritional yeast into the sauce.

Serving Green Spaghetti at Gatherings

Green spaghetti is not only perfect for weeknight dinners but also makes a great addition to potlucks and gatherings. Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it stand out among other dishes. Here are some tips for serving green spaghetti at a party:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the green sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the spaghetti, and combine.
• Serving Buffet-Style: Serve the green spaghetti in a large dish with various toppings on the side, such as grated cheese, sliced jalapeños, lime wedges, and fresh herbs. This allows guests to customize their plates according to their preferences.
• Pairing Suggestions: Green spaghetti pairs well with Mexican-inspired side dishes like elote (Mexican street corn), black beans, or a fresh avocado salad.

Green Spaghetti for Meal Prep

Green spaghetti is also an excellent option for meal prep. Here’s how you can make it part of your weekly meal plan:

• Storing: Store the cooked spaghetti and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat the sauce in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it has thickened. Then, toss in the cooked spaghetti until it’s heated through.
• Freezing: The green sauce can be frozen for up to three months. Simply defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Health Benefits of Green Spaghetti

In addition to its delightful taste, green spaghetti offers some nutritional benefits, especially if you add extra vegetables or use whole wheat pasta. Here are some of the health benefits:

• Rich in Vitamins: The poblano peppers and cilantro are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health.
• Healthy Fats: The heavy cream provides fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins, and using a moderate amount keeps the dish balanced.
• Protein Boost: Adding grilled chicken or shrimp increases the protein content, making the dish more filling and suitable for those looking to meet their daily protein needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is green spaghetti made of?

Green spaghetti is made of roasted poblano peppers, cream, cream cheese, cilantro, and garlic, creating a creamy and vibrant green sauce that’s tossed with cooked spaghetti.

What does green pasta taste like?

Green pasta has a rich and smoky flavor from the roasted poblano peppers, with creamy and slightly tangy notes from the cream and cheese. It’s a delicious mix of comfort and freshness.

What is the green stuff sprinkled on spaghetti?

The green garnish on spaghetti is typically fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. In the case of green spaghetti, it could also be sliced jalapeño or extra roasted poblano pepper strips.

What is Mexican spaghetti made of?

Mexican spaghetti, such as green spaghetti, often features a unique sauce made from ingredients like roasted peppers, cream, cheese, and various seasonings, giving it a distinct Mexican flavor profile. Discover the rich ingredients, history, and easy steps to make delicious Mexican spaghetti, blending Italian pasta with vibrant Mexican flavors.

Can I make green spaghetti spicier?

Yes, to make green spaghetti spicier, you can add a serrano or jalapeño pepper to the green sauce mixture. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving for an added kick.

Is green spaghetti kid-friendly?

Green spaghetti is generally kid-friendly, especially if your children enjoy creamy pasta dishes. The poblano peppers are mild, but you can adjust the spice level by omitting any additional spicy peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Green spaghetti is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and mains. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for a complete, balanced meal.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread makes the perfect companion to mop up any leftover green sauce.
• Elote (Mexican Street Corn): The smoky, sweet flavors of elote pair wonderfully with the creamy green sauce of the spaghetti.

Conclusion

Green spaghetti is an exciting, flavorful dish that brings together the smoky richness of roasted poblano peppers and the comforting creaminess of a well-made pasta sauce. It’s easy to make, visually striking, and sure to be a hit at your next dinner gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this green spaghetti recipe offers a refreshing change from the usual pasta options. Try it out, and enjoy the vibrant taste of Mexico on your plate!