Green Spaghetti : The Ultimate Guide to Espagueti Verde

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the vibrant flavors of roasted poblano peppers with a creamy, velvety sauce, all perfectly coating a plate of al dente spaghetti. If you’re looking for a lunch recipe that is both comforting and exciting, look no further than Green Spaghetti, also known as Espagueti Verde.

Green Spaghetti, or Espagueti Verde, is a beloved Mexican dish that brings together the rich, smoky taste of roasted poblano peppers with the creamy smoothness of Mexican crema. This dish is not only visually stunning with its bright green sauce but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that makes it a standout meal. Whether you’re familiar with Mexican cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

At Juliet Recipes, we believe that cooking should be accessible, enjoyable, and a way to create memorable moments around the table. This Green Spaghetti recipe fits perfectly into our “Lunch” category, offering a dish that’s simple enough for a quick meal but special enough to impress your family or guests. It’s a perfect example of how easy it can be to explore new flavors and bring a little bit of joy to your daily meals.

Why You’ll Love This Green Spaghetti Recipe

Flavor Profile:
This Green Spaghetti is a flavor explosion in every bite. The roasted poblano peppers bring a smoky, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of Mexican crema. Add to that a hint of garlic, cilantro, and a touch of lime, and you have a dish that is both rich and refreshing. The slight spiciness from the peppers adds just the right amount of kick, making this a dish that’s as exciting as it is satisfying.

Ease of Preparation:
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few steps—roasting the peppers, blending the sauce, and cooking the pasta—you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy professionals, home cooks, or anyone looking for a quick and satisfying lunch option.

Versatility:
This Green Spaghetti recipe is incredibly versatile. It can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs. Want to make it vegetarian? Use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon. Need a vegan version? Substitute the Mexican crema with a plant-based cream. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a more substantial meal. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Comprehensive List:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 4 poblano peppers
• 1 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream/creme fraiche as a substitute)
• ½ cup cilantro leaves
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cube chicken bouillon (or vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian version)
• 1 cup milk or reserved pasta water
• 1-2 jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• Cotija cheese, for garnish

Ingredient Notes:

• Poblano Peppers: Look for firm, dark green poblanos with a smooth surface. These peppers give the sauce its distinctive flavor and color. If you can’t find poblanos, green bell peppers can be used, though the flavor will be milder.
• Mexican Crema: This is a key ingredient for the sauce’s creamy texture. If you can’t find it, sour cream or creme fraiche are good alternatives, though you might want to adjust the quantity to maintain the right consistency.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a salty finish to the dish. If unavailable, you can substitute with feta or Parmesan.

Green Spaghetti’s Step-by-Step Instructions 

Preparation:

1. Roast the Poblano Peppers: Place the peppers on a baking sheet and roast under the broiler, turning occasionally, until the skin is blackened and blistered. This should take about 10 minutes. Once roasted, place the peppers in a plastic bag to steam for 10 minutes, making them easier to peel. After steaming, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and set the peppers aside.
2. Cook the Spaghetti: While the peppers are steaming, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Making the Sauce:
3. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the roasted poblano peppers, Mexican crema, cilantro, onion, garlic, bouillon cube, and half of the reserved pasta water or milk. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Cook the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Pour in the blended sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.

Combining and Serving:
5. Mix with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the green spaghetti hot, garnished with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Enjoy as a main dish or a side to your favorite Mexican meal.

Tips for the Perfect Green Spaghetti

Roasting Peppers:

• Open Flame: For the best smoky flavor, roast the peppers directly over an open flame on a gas stove or grill. Turn them frequently with tongs until all sides are charred.
• Broiler Method: If you don’t have access to an open flame, roasting under a broiler is a great alternative. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.

Adjusting Spice Levels for your green spaghetti :

• If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the poblanos before blending, and skip the jalapeños.
• For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Making it Ahead:

• Sauce Preparation: You can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: The sauce also freezes well. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Variations and Adaptations

Vegetarian and Vegan Options:

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon. To make it vegan, substitute the Mexican crema with a plant-based cream or coconut milk and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for garnish.

Adding Protein:

• Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added to the dish for extra protein. Simply cook the protein separately and toss it in with the spaghetti before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this green spaghetti with a side of fresh garden salad or some crusty garlic bread. It also pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.

Green Pasta Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients:

• Per Serving (based on 8 servings):
  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 8g

Health Benefits:

• Poblano Peppers: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, poblanos are great for boosting your immune system.
• Cilantro: Adds freshness and is a good source of vitamin K and dietary fiber.
• Mexican Crema: Provides a rich source of calcium and contributes to the dish’s creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Green Spaghetti made of?
Green Spaghetti, or Espagueti Verde, is made from a blend of roasted poblano peppers, Mexican crema, cilantro, garlic, and sometimes cream cheese. These ingredients are blended into a creamy, vibrant green sauce that is then tossed with cooked spaghetti. The dish is often garnished with cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.

What does Green Pasta taste like?
Green Pasta has a rich, creamy, and slightly smoky flavor, thanks to the roasted poblano peppers. The Mexican crema adds a smooth, tangy element, while the cilantro and garlic bring a fresh, aromatic taste. The dish has a subtle heat, which can be adjusted depending on the amount of jalapeños or other peppers used.

Green Pasta common name ?
The green pasta is commonly known as “Espagueti Verde” in Spanish, which translates to “Green Spaghetti.” This dish is a popular Mexican variation of pasta, known for its vibrant green sauce made from roasted poblano peppers and other flavorful ingredients.

Conclusion

Green Spaghetti, or Espagueti Verde, is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table. With its smoky, creamy sauce and versatile nature, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your lunch rotation.

Try this Green Spaghetti recipe today and discover the joy of cooking with new flavors. Share your experience in the comments below and don’t forget to explore more lunch recipes on Juliet Recipes.

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Additional Resources

Related Recipes:

• Creamy Chard Pesto Baked Orzo
• Crab Pasta
• Lemon Mascarpone Pasta

Cooking Tips:

• How to Cook Pasta Perfectly