Mexican green spaghetti

Name: Mexican green spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Milk (Optional): A splash or two if the sauce feels too thick.crunch.; Spaghetti: The star of this dish, perfect for holding the creamy sauce.; Poblano Pepper: Use 1–2 for that signature smoky flavor.; Green Bell Pepper: Balances the sauce with its mild sweetness.; Cream Cheese: One full block for a rich and creamy texture.; Mexican Cream: ½ cup for a silky finish to the sauce.; Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby touch to the sauce.; Garlic Clove: Brings depth and a hint of sharpness.; Onion: A few slices, sautéed in butter for added flavor.; Kosher Salt or Garlic Salt: To season to taste.

Posted on 01/05/2025

Posted by Ava

A plate of spaghetti with a creamy green sauce, topped with fresh parsley and served with a side salad.

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Pasta is already amazing. But what if I told you there’s a version that’s creamy, smoky, slightly spicy, and, oh yeah, bright green? Meet green spaghetti, the dish you never knew you needed in your life. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, a pasta lover looking for something new, or just someone who loves a good sauce, this recipe is going to knock your socks off.

This is not your average pasta night. Green spaghetti (espagueti verde, as it’s called in Spanish) is a Mexican-inspired dish featuring spaghetti coated in a creamy poblano pepper sauce. It’s bold, flavorful, and totally Instagram-worthy—yet so simple to make that it might become your new weeknight favorite.

What Makes Green Spaghetti So Special?

If you’ve never heard of green spaghetti, don’t worry—you’re not alone. While dishes like alfredo and marinara get all the attention, green spaghetti quietly sits in the corner, waiting to blow your mind. What sets it apart is the sauce. Made with roasted poblano peppers, cream, garlic, and a few secret ingredients, the sauce is velvety, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy. But here’s the kicker: it’s also versatile. You can, moreover, jazz it up with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon. Alternatively, keep it simple and let the sauce shine on its own. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The Secret Star: Poblano Peppers

Spaghetti verde in a plate with cilantro garnish.

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the heart and soul of green spaghetti—the poblano peppers. If you’re new to these, let me fill you in. Poblanos are mild chili peppers that pack a ton of flavor without overwhelming heat. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness while adding a smoky depth that’s hard to beat.

And don’t worry—roasting poblanos is easier than it sounds. Just pop them under the broiler or on an open flame until their skins are charred, then peel and deseed. Boom, you’re ready to blend up some magic.

What You’ll Need

Here’s the rundown of ingredients for this creamy, dreamy dish:

Ingredients You’ll Need

Milk (Optional): A splash or two if the sauce feels too thick.crunch.

Spaghetti: The star of this dish, perfect for holding the creamy sauce.

Poblano Pepper: Use 1–2 for that signature smoky flavor.

Green Bell Pepper: Balances the sauce with its mild sweetness.

Cream Cheese: One full block for a rich and creamy texture.

Mexican Cream: ½ cup for a silky finish to the sauce.

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby touch to the sauce.

Garlic Clove: Brings depth and a hint of sharpness.

Onion: A few slices, sautéed in butter for added flavor.

Kosher Salt or Garlic Salt: To season to taste.

How to make Mexican green spaghetti

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create the best green spaghetti you’ve ever had:

1: Roast the Peppers

Roasted green peppers peeled and placed on a wooden board.

Start by roasting the poblano and green bell peppers on a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Turn the peppers every couple of minutes until all sides are evenly charred. Once roasted, remove them from the heat and let them cool for a few minutes.

To make peeling easier, cover the peppers with aluminum foil or place them in a zip-top plastic bag to let them sweat. After a few minutes, peel off the charred skin, remove the stems and seeds, and roughly chop the peppers. Set them aside for the sauce.

2: Cook the Pasta

In a large stockpot, bring water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

3: Blend the Green Sauce

Blended green spaghetti sauce in a blender.

In a blender, combine the roasted poblano and green bell peppers, cilantro, cream cheese, Mexican crema, garlic clove, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk and blend again. Set the sauce aside.

4: Sauté the Onion

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they soften, about 2 minutes. The onions add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

5: Simmer the Sauce

Pour the blended green sauce into the skillet with the onions. Let the sauce heat until it starts bubbling, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth consistency.

6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Pasta coated with green sauce in a frying pan

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss the noodles to ensure they are evenly coated in the creamy green sauce. Let the pasta and sauce simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the green spaghetti hot, topped with crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco for a salty, tangy finish. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor. Grab a fork and enjoy this comforting, flavorful dish!

Why Green Spaghetti Works for Any Occasion

One of the best things about green spaghetti is its versatility. You can serve it as a quick weeknight dinner, a side dish at a barbecue, or even as a fancy centerpiece for a dinner party. It’s got that wow factor, but it’s also low-effort—a winning combo if you ask me.

Here are a few ways to serve it:

With Grilled Chicken: Slice up some juicy, smoky chicken breasts and pile them on top.
As a Vegetarian Main: Skip the meat and let the poblanos do all the talking.
At a Potluck: This dish is a guaranteed hit—just make a big batch and watch it disappear.

Tips for the Perfect Green Spaghetti

Char Those Peppers! Don’t skip the roasting step—it’s what gives the sauce its signature smoky flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta. Al dente is key for texture, especially when tossing it in a creamy sauce.
Customize the Heat. If you like it spicy, throw in a serrano or jalapeño pepper while blending. For a milder version, add a bit of cream cheese to tone things down.
Make It Ahead: You can blend the sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with fresh pasta.

Nutritional Perks

Okay, so it’s not a salad, but green spaghetti does have some redeeming qualities. Poblano peppers are packed with vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system. And if you use whole-grain pasta, you’re sneaking in some extra fiber too.

A Few Fun Twists

If you want to shake things up, here are a few variations to try:

Swap the Pasta: Use fettuccine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Top It Off: Sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of olive oil for a little something extra.

Why Your Family Will Love It

Let’s face it—green food can be a hard sell, especially with kids. But this dish? It’s creamy, cheesy, and fun to eat, so even the pickiest eaters will be on board. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get some veggies in without anyone realizing it.

Pairing Suggestions

Wondering what to serve alongside your green spaghetti? Here are a few ideas:

Garlic Bread: Because carbs on carbs just make sense.
Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are perfect complements.
A Crisp Salad: Something light and tangy, like arugula with a lemon vinaigrette.

Regional Variations of Green Spaghetti

Though it’s often associated with Mexican cuisine, green spaghetti has cousins in other parts of the world. In Italy, you’ll find pesto-based pastas with similar vibrant green sauces, but made with basil and pine nuts. In South America, spinach or cilantro often takes center stage in green pasta dishes. However, what makes Mexican green spaghetti stand out is the smoky flavor of the roasted poblano peppers. Moreover, it’s a unique twist that brings together the creamy comfort of Italian pasta with the bold flavors of Mexican cooking.

Green Spaghetti for Meal Prep

If you’re into meal prepping, green spaghetti can be your new best friend. The sauce holds up beautifully in the fridge for a few days, making it easy to toss with pasta when you’re in a rush. To save even more time, roast your poblano peppers in advance and store them in an airtight container.

For a well-rounded meal, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to your prepped green spaghetti. Divide it into individual containers, and you’ve got flavorful lunches ready to go all week.

FAQs

How many calories are in a cup of green spaghetti?

The calorie count for green spaghetti varies depending on the ingredients used, but a typical cup made with cream, cream cheese, and pasta is around 300–400 calories. Adjustments like using low-fat dairy or whole-grain pasta can reduce the calorie content.

Is it OK to eat green spaghetti squash?

Absolutely! Green spaghetti squash is safe to eat as long as it’s fully ripe or nearly ripe. If it’s very dark green and immature, the flavor might be slightly bitter, but it’s still edible and can be cooked like ripe squash.

How do you make green spaghetti sensory play?

To make green spaghetti sensory play, first, cook regular spaghetti, then let it cool. Afterward, toss it with food-safe green food coloring. You can, moreover, add olive oil to prevent sticking. Finally, let kids play with it in a clean tray or bowl for a fun, squishy activity (just remind them not to eat it!).

How do you reheat green spaghetti?

Reheat green spaghetti by placing it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and heat until the pasta is evenly warmed through.

The Green Spaghetti Legacy

Green spaghetti may not be as famous as some other pasta dishes, but it’s a hidden gem that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and just different enough to make dinner feel special.

So, the next time you’re craving something creamy and delicious, ditch the jarred sauce and go green. Trust me, once you try it, there’s no going back.

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