If you’re looking to try something new and flavorful, spaghetti in green sauce (or espagueti verde) is a dish that combines the richness of creamy textures with the freshness of green peppers and herbs. Inspired by Mexican cuisine, this vibrant dish is perfect for a family dinner or even as a side dish to complement a hearty main course. The unique green sauce is made with poblano peppers, bell pepper, and a variety of other ingredients that create a savory, slightly tangy, and creamy flavor profile. Plus, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat. Ready to brighten up your dinner table? Let’s get started on this delicious, feel-good pasta dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound of spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 3 poblano peppers
- 1 bell pepper (green or red)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Mexican crema
- 1/4 cup queso fresco, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Roast the Peppers
Start by roasting the poblanos and bell pepper to bring out their rich flavors. You can do this by placing them directly on an open flame on your stovetop or using your oven’s broiler. Turn the peppers occasionally, allowing the skin to char and blister. Once roasted, place them in a plastic bag for about 10 minutes to steam, then peel off the skin and remove the seeds. This step is essential to achieving that deep, smoky flavor in your sauce.
2. Prepare the Green Sauce
In a food processor, combine the roasted poblanos, bell pepper, sour cream, cream cheese, and chicken bouillon. Add the soy sauce, green onion, and lemon juice for extra flavor. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The creaminess from the cream cheese and sour cream will make the sauce velvety and rich, while the soy sauce and chicken bouillon will infuse it with depth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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3. Cook the Spaghetti
Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Be sure to save a cup of pasta water before draining to help thicken the sauce later, if needed.
4. Combine the Sauce and Pasta
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, pour in the green sauce from the food processor. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Next, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss it in the green sauce until the pasta is well-coated. Let the spaghetti cook in the sauce for another 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Finish and Serve
Once the pasta is perfectly coated with the green sauce, remove from heat. Stir in the Mexican crema for an extra creamy finish. Serve the pasta with a generous sprinkle of queso fresco and parmesan cheese on top. The queso fresco adds a fresh, mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of the sauce. Garnish with additional green onion for a pop of color and flavor.
Experiment with Flavors
Enjoy your delicious spaghetti in Green Sauce by enhancing it flavor by experimenting with different flavors.
Add Protein
For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to the pasta.
Vegan Option
Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly dish.
Experiment with Greens
Swap out spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Tips for Serving
This green spaghetti pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For an extra touch of spice, feel free to add a poblano sauce drizzle over the top. If you’re craving more cheese, top the dish with more parmesan cheese or even a little more queso fresco before serving.
Conclusion
Spaghetti in Green Sauce is a delightful fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, bringing a creamy, smoky, and tangy twist to your regular pasta routine. The poblano peppers and bell pepper create a vibrant, earthy base, while sour cream and cream cheese make the sauce irresistibly smooth. Adding elements like soy sauce, chicken bouillon, and lemon juice brings depth and brightness, transforming this dish into a truly memorable meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or the main event, this Mexican green spaghetti is sure to impress your family and guests. Give this recipe a try, and let the comforting yet bold flavors of Espagueti Verde add a delicious new dish to your repertoire.