Green Sauce For Pasta

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: Italian

A vibrant, herbaceous green sauce with cream cheese and garlic, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a flavorful, creamy, and quick-to-make sauce that complements any pasta dish.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp dried basil
  • 1/4 c oleo
  • 1/4 c olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 2 Tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2/3 c boiling water

Instructions

  1. Blend dried basil, dried parsley, dried pepper, oleo, olive oil, cream cheese, garlic, and boiling water in a blender until smooth.
  2. Cook your preferred pasta according to package instructions.
  3. Combine the cooked pasta with the green sauce and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. If fresh herbs are available, substitute 1/4 cup of fresh basil and parsley each for the dried versions. Adjust the garlic to taste, or use roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor. This sauce pairs beautifully with Pasta With Asparagus And Creamy Lemon Sauce for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the green sauce over your favorite pasta, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of additional parsley for color. It complements a side salad or garlic bread nicely. For a complete meal, pair it with protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, or enjoy it alongside Italian recipes such as Light Fettuine Alfredo.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover green sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. You can also add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if it thickens in the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Green Sauce For Pasta contains roughly 567 calories, with 20g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), and potassium (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

567 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.6g 39% DV
Total Fat 47.4g 61% DV
Carbs 27.9g 10% DV
Fiber 19.2g 69% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 291.7mg 13% DV
Potassium 3660.1mg 78% DV
Cholesterol 13.5mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 49.5mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 99.3mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 127.7mg 10% DV
Iron 31.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly High-fiber
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for the dried ones! Use 1/4 cup of fresh basil and 1/4 cup of fresh parsley for a vibrant flavor. Just remember that fresh herbs can be more potent, so adjust according to your taste.

What types of pasta work best with this green sauce?

This green sauce is versatile and pairs well with various pasta shapes, including spaghetti, penne, or farfalle. Choose your favorite type or even opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Can I freeze the green sauce for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the green sauce in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The texture may change slightly upon thawing, but it will still be delicious.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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