Description
Mexican Green Spaghetti is a vibrant, creamy, and spicy pasta dish that brings the bold flavors of fresh cilantro, jalapeños, and sour cream into a deliciously smooth sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and makes for a fun twist on traditional spaghetti.
Packed with herbaceous freshness, a zesty kick from lime, and a creamy texture, this dish is both light and satisfying. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican flavors and wants an exciting pasta dish to add to their meal rotation!
Ingredients
For the Green Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro (for a vibrant, herbaceous flavor)
- 2 jalapeños (adjust for spice preference; deseed for a milder sauce)
- 3 garlic cloves (adds depth and richness to the sauce)
- ½ cup sour cream (for creaminess; can substitute with Greek yogurt)
- 1 lime (juiced) (adds a zesty, refreshing kick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the garlic and enhancing the sauce texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb spaghetti (or any pasta of choice)
- 4 cups water (for boiling pasta; save 1 cup of pasta water for sauce adjustment)
- Avocado slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Green Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeños (adjust quantity for spice preference)
- Garlic cloves
- Sour cream
- Lime juice
- Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water until it reaches a creamy consistency.
3. Sauté Garlic & Heat the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Pour in the blended green sauce and stir well.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Pasta & Sauce:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the pasta absorbs the sauce.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh avocado slices and extra cilantro.
- Optional: A final squeeze of lime juice adds extra brightness.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice: Remove seeds from jalapeños for a milder sauce, or add extra for more heat.
- Vegan Option: Replace sour cream with cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
- Adding Protein: Serve with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Top with crumbled queso fresco or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Category: lunch
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: ~420
- Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~60g
- Protein: ~10g