Okay, let’s talk green spaghetti for a second. If you’ve by no means had it, you’re seriously lacking out. This dish is creamy, slightly tangy, and bursting with fresh, herby flavor that’s completely precise. Moreover, it’s simply as a great deal fun to make as it’s far to eat!
Whether you’re whipping it up to your circle of relatives, prepping meals for the week, or aiming to affect at a potluck (howdy, instant showstopper!), green spaghetti has you covered. In truth, it’s one of those recipes that works for every occasion.
So, grab your favorite pot, fire up your blender, and let’s break it all down!
What Exactly Is Green Spaghetti?
Green spaghetti (or “espagueti verde,” if you’re vibing with its Mexican roots) gets its vibrant color from a creamy sauce made with roasted poblano peppers, sour cream, and cheese. Moreover, the smoky, slightly spicy kick from the peppers balances the creaminess of the sauce perfectly.
In fact, it’s super easy to customize—you can add protein, sneak in veggies, or switch up the toppings.However, unlike undeniable pasta, it brings a completely unique taste that’s something but normal. It’s like mac and cheese’s cooler, inexperienced cousin. Once you strive it, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the best thing—most of this stuff is already in your pantry or fridge:
For the Sauce:
- Poblano peppers (3 large ones): These are the star of the show.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Makes it creamy and dreamy.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Because garlic makes everything better.
- White onion (½, diced): Adds that base flavor.
- Cilantro (a small bunch): For that fresh, herby vibe.
- Chicken bouillon powder (1 tsp): Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
- Cream cheese (4 oz): Makes the sauce thick and rich.
For the Pasta:
- Spaghetti (12 oz): Regular or whole wheat works.
- Butter (2 tbsp): For tossing everything together.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Because why not?
Green Spaghetti: Step-by-Step Directions
1. Roast the Poblanos
Turn on your stove or broiler and roast the poblanos until the skin is charred and blistered. If you’re like me, you’ll love the smoky smell filling your kitchen—it’s a whole vibe. Once they’re done, toss them into a plastic bag or a bowl with a lid for 10 minutes. This helps the skin loosen up, so it’s easier to peel.
After they’ve steamed, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and set them aside. (Pro tip: Don’t rinse them under water! You’ll wash away all that good smoky flavor.)
2. Make the Sauce
Grab your blender and throw in the peeled poblanos, sour cream, garlic, onion, cilantro, bouillon powder, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth. The color alone is enough to make you swoon—it’s that perfect creamy green.
3. Cook the Pasta
Boil your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water like the ocean for maximum flavor. Once it’s cooked, drain it but don’t rinse—you want that starchy coating to help the sauce stick.
4. Toss Everything Together
Melt the butter in a large pan, then add your green sauce. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix until every strand is coated in that velvety goodness.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Pile it onto plates, sprinkle with Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in. Trust me, your taste buds will do a little happy dance.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu work great.
- Sneak in veggies: Blend in some spinach or kale with the sauce for extra greens.
- Spice it up: Add a jalapeño to the blender if you want more heat.
- Make it cheesy: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Honestly, inexperienced spaghetti is one of these recipes that hits all the right notes. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and just a little surprising—which makes it best for spicing up your common pasta night time. Plus, it’s particularly brief to make, so even on a busy weeknight, you can whip it up with out breaking a sweat.
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few fun spins on the classic:
- Green Spaghetti Bake: Toss everything in a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake until bubbly.
- Vegan Green Spaghetti: Swap the sour cream and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives.
- Avocado Green Spaghetti: Add a ripe avocado to the blender for an extra creamy, healthy twist.
The History Behind Green Spaghetti
Let’s give a quick shoutout to where this dish comes from. Green spaghetti is a beloved recipe in Mexican cuisine, often served at parties and celebrations. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but is easy enough to make any day of the week.
And while the traditional version uses poblano peppers, you’ll find variations across households—because every family has its own little twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! In fact, green spaghetti tastes just as good the next day. Here’s how to keep it tasty:
- Store: Place any leftover green spaghetti in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Moreover, keeping it sealed well helps maintain its freshness.
- Reheat: Warm it up gently in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Additionally, stirring frequently prevents it from sticking or drying out.
The Secret Behind That Vibrant Green
One of the most striking things about green spaghetti is its vibrant color. The poblano peppers give the sauce a natural green hue that just screams “fresh!” But what makes this green so rich and creamy isn’t just the peppers—it’s the way they combine with sour cream, cream cheese, and a touch of cilantro. These substances stability each different out flawlessly, developing a sauce that’s as visually lovely as it is flavorful. If you’ve ever questioned a way to get kids (or choosy eaters) to experience their greens, this dish is probably your secret weapon.
Why Green Spaghetti Is Perfect for Parties
Let’s face it—green spaghetti is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s the type of dish that sticks out on a buffet desk, now not simply because of its shade but also due to its precise flavor. It’s rich enough to experience indulgent but light enough to enjoy alongside other dishes. Plus, it’s wonderful smooth to make in big batches. Double the sauce, cook dinner up multiple packs of spaghetti, and also you’ve were given a meal that’ll have your guests coming lower back for seconds (and thirds). Add a sprinkle of queso fresco on pinnacle, and you’ve were given yourself a party dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
Health Benefits of Green Spaghetti
Believe it or not, inexperienced spaghetti may be a sneaky manner to percent in some vitamins. Poblano peppers are loaded with diet C and antioxidants, which help guide your immune device. Additionally, cilantro now not handiest boosts the taste but also provides diet K and different vital nutrients.
Moreover, swapping in whole-grain pasta or zoodles boosts the fiber content, making the dish a more balanced option. In fact, green spaghetti proves that comfort food doesn’t always have to feel heavy—it can be flavorful and nourishing all at once.
Green Spaghetti Around the World
While the Mexican version of green spaghetti is iconic, other cuisines also have their own takes on green pasta dishes. In Italy, for example, you’ll find spinach or basil-based pestos creating a similar green sauce. In Thailand, green curry pasta offers a spicy twist that’s totally different but equally delicious. These global variations show how versatile green pasta dishes can be and might even inspire you to experiment with your own take on green spaghetti.
A Kid-Friendly Favorite
If you’re a parent, you know the struggle of getting kids to eat something new. But green spaghetti often gets an instant thumbs-up because it’s fun, colorful, and creamy—three things kids love. To make it even more appealing, you can serve it with fun pasta shapes like bowties or spirals. Want to add a fun twist? Let your little ones sprinkle their favorite cheese on top or even get involved in blending the sauce (with supervision, of course). Turning dinner into a family activity makes it even more special.
FAQs About Green Spaghetti
Why Did My Spaghetti Turn Green?
Spaghetti can turn green if you’ve used green ingredients like spinach, basil, or a green sauce—like the poblano-based one in green spaghetti. If plain pasta turns green, it could be a harmless reaction with water or additives. No worries, it’s safe to eat!
What Is the Rarest Spaghetti?
Rare spaghettis often feature unique ingredients. Examples include spaghetti alla bottarga (with cured fish roe) and black spaghetti (colored with squid ink). These are harder to find but incredibly special!
How Many Calories Are in a Cup of Green Spaghetti?
A cup of green spaghetti has 250-350 calories, depending on the recipe. Using light swaps like Greek yogurt can lower it to about 200 calories.
Which Spaghetti Is the Healthiest?
Healthy options include whole-wheat spaghetti for fiber, legume-based pasta for protein, or zoodles for a low-carb twist. Green spaghetti with extra veggies makes for a nutritious pick!
Final Thoughts
Green spaghetti isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s bold, creamy, and so full of flavor that it’s guaranteed to make your taste buds sing. Moreover, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or impressing a crowd. In fact, it’s one of those rare recipes that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
If you’re looking for more easy and delicious ideas, check out ourd Dinner recipes for inspiration.
So, grab some poblanos, get your blender ready, and start cooking—you’ll thank me later!
PrintGreen Spaghetti: The Creamy, Zesty Dish You Didn’t Know You Needed
green spaghetti is creamy, a little tangy, and packed with a fresh, herby flavor that’s totally unique. Plus, it’s fun to make and even better to eat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- Poblano peppers (3 large ones): These are the star of the show.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Makes it creamy and dreamy.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Because garlic makes everything better.
- White onion (½, diced): Adds that base flavor.
- Cilantro (a small bunch): For that fresh, herby vibe.
- Chicken bouillon powder (1 tsp): Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
- Cream cheese (4 oz): Makes the sauce thick and rich.
For the Pasta:
- Spaghetti (12 oz): Regular or whole wheat works.
- Butter (2 tbsp): For tossing everything together.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Because why not?
Instructions
1. Roast the Poblanos
Turn on your stove or broiler and roast the poblanos until the skin is charred and blistered. If you’re like me, you’ll love the smoky smell filling your kitchen—it’s a whole vibe. Once they’re done, toss them into a plastic bag or a bowl with a lid for 10 minutes. This helps the skin loosen up, so it’s easier to peel.
After they’ve steamed, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and set them aside. (Pro tip: Don’t rinse them under water! You’ll wash away all that good smoky flavor.)
2. Make the Sauce
Grab your blender and throw in the peeled poblanos, sour cream, garlic, onion, cilantro, bouillon powder, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth. The color alone is enough to make you swoon—it’s that perfect creamy green.
3. Cook the Pasta
Boil your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water like the ocean for maximum flavor. Once it’s cooked, drain it but don’t rinse—you want that starchy coating to help the sauce stick.
4. Toss Everything Together
Melt the butter in a large pan, then add your green sauce. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and mix until every strand is coated in that velvety goodness.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Pile it onto plates, sprinkle with Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy, and dig in. Trust me, your taste buds will do a little happy dance.
Notes
- Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu work great.
- Sneak in veggies: Blend in some spinach or kale with the sauce for extra greens.
- Spice it up: Add a jalapeño to the blender if you want more heat.
- Make it cheesy: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 10g
Keywords: Green Spaghetti, Poblano Spaghetti, Espagueti Verde, Mexican Green Spaghetti