Green Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

A vibrant green sauce with fresh herbs and cheesy richness, perfect for pasta lovers seeking a flavorful, quick-to-make accompaniment that highlights basil and parsley flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. sweet basil
  • 2 Tbsp. parsley flakes
  • 1/4 c. margarine
  • 1/3 c. Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 c. oil
  • 2/3 c. boiling water

Instructions

  1. Combine cream cheese, sweet basil, parsley flakes, margarine, Parmesan cheese, oil, and boiling water in a saucepan.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  3. Serve the green sauce over cooked spaghetti.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with ricotta. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use olive oil instead of margarine. Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor, so consider using fresh basil and parsley if available. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder for extra depth.

Serving Suggestions

This green sauce pairs beautifully with spaghetti, but it can also complement gnocchi or Italian recipes featuring vegetables. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Drizzle some extra olive oil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the sauce's consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Green Sauce contains roughly 709 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).

709 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.1g 10% DV
Total Fat 74.1g 95% DV
Carbs 8.4g 3% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 0.8g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 278.2mg 12% DV
Potassium 92.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 15mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 48.3mcg 5% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 74.7mg 6% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly
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 make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so adding a bit of water can help restore its creaminess.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! This green sauce is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat products. It’s a great choice for those looking for vegetarian recipes that are both flavorful and satisfying.

What can I serve with this green sauce?

In addition to spaghetti, this green sauce works well with other pasta dishes like Salsa Pasta or Spinach Pasta. Consider serving it alongside a light, crisp salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.

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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