Mexican cuisine is known for its bold flavors, rich textures, and vibrant colors. Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti) is a delicious, creamy pasta dish that embodies all these qualities. This dish features a luscious green sauce made from roasted poblano peppers, cream, cheese, and seasonings, creating a unique fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Espagueti Verde—from its origins and ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, and variations. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this guide will help you make restaurant-quality Espagueti Verde at home.
What is Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti)?
Why Espagueti Verde is a Must-Try Mexican Pasta Dish
Espagueti Verde, or Mexican Green Spaghetti, is a rich, creamy pasta dish made with a vibrant green sauce from roasted poblano peppers. The name “verde” (Spanish for green) comes from the sauce’s beautiful color, created by blending poblano peppers with crema, cheese, and seasonings.
Unlike traditional Italian pasta dishes, which rely on tomato-based sauces, Espagueti Verde embraces smoky and creamy flavors. This dish is often served as a side at family gatherings or as a standalone meal.
The Secret Behind Green Spaghetti’s Creamy Poblano Sauce
The real magic of Espagueti Verde lies in its silky, flavorful poblano sauce. Here’s what gives this dish its signature taste:
Chicken or vegetable broth – Helps create a smooth, pourable consistency.on dietary preferences, or even add proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
Roasted poblano peppers – The smoky base of the sauce.
Mexican crema or sour cream – Adds a rich, tangy creaminess.
Queso fresco or cream cheese – Enhances the texture and depth of flavor.
Garlic and onions – Essential aromatics for a well-rounded taste.
📌 Looking for a healthy pasta alternative? Check out Healthy Spaghetti Squash Recipes for a low-carb option!
How tHow to Make Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti) at Home
Step-by-Step Espagueti Verde Recipe – The Best Way to Make It
Creating Espagueti Verde at home is a delightful experience that combines simple ingredients to produce a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s how to prepare this Mexican green spaghetti:
Roast the Poblano Peppers
Begin by roasting four poblano peppers until their skins are charred. This can be done over an open flame or under a broiler. Once charred, place the peppers in a sealed plastic bag to steam for about 10 minutes; this makes peeling easier. After steaming, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and set the peppers aside.
Cook the Spaghetti
While the peppers are steaming, cook one pound of spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water, and toss the noodles with a tablespoon of butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Green Sauce
In a blender, combine the roasted poblano peppers, one cup of fresh cilantro leaves, half an onion (roughly chopped), three cloves of garlic, one cup of Mexican crema or sour cream, an eight-ounce block of cream cheese, one chicken or vegetable bouillon cube, and half a cup of milk or the reserved pasta water. For an extra kick, you can add one to two roasted serrano or jalapeño peppers. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Simmer the Sauce
Pour the blended sauce into a large pot over medium-low heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with additional milk or pasta water.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the simmering sauce. Toss until the noodles are thoroughly coated with the creamy green sauce.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer the Espagueti Verde to serving plates and garnish with crumbled cotija cheese and additional cilantro if desired.
This method ensures a harmonious blend of flavors, resulting in a creamy, savory dish that’s sure to impress.
Espagueti Verde Recipe Notes
To elevate your Espagueti Verde, consider the following tips:
Roasting the Peppers
Roasting poblano peppers enhances their smoky flavor and adds depth to the sauce. Ensure they are evenly charred for the best results.
Adjusting Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more milk or reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy enough to coat the pasta without being overly thick.
Balancing Heat
For those sensitive to spice, consider omitting the serrano or jalapeño peppers. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier dish, include the seeds of these peppers or add an extra one to the blend.
Cheese Selection
While cotija cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with queso fresco or even grated Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead
The green sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove before combining with freshly cooked pasta.
By following these suggestions, you’ll create a Green Spaghetti that’s both authentic and tailored to your taste preferences.
Ingredients for Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti)
To craft a delectable Espagueti Verde, gather the following ingredients:
- Spaghetti: 1 pound of your preferred spaghetti or similar pasta.
- Poblano Peppers: 4 large poblano peppers, roasted and peeled.
- Cilantro: 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves.
- Onion: Half an onion, roughly chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, peeled.
- Crema Mexicana or Sour Cream: 1 cup to add creaminess.
- Cream Cheese: An 8-ounce block for a rich texture.
- Chicken or Vegetable Bouillon Cube: 1 cube to enhance flavor.
- Milk or Reserved Pasta Water: Half a cup to adjust sauce consistency.
- Serrano or Jalapeño Peppers (Optional): 1-2 for added heat.
- Butter or Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon to prevent pasta from sticking.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Cotija Cheese: For garnish.
These ingredients harmoniously blend to create the signature creamy and flavorful green sauce that defines Espagueti Verde.
Notes & Cooking Tips for Espagueti Verde
How to Roast Peppers for a Smoky Espagueti Verde Sauce
Roasting poblano peppers is a crucial step in developing the deep, smoky flavor characteristic of Espagueti Verde. Here’s how to do it:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven’s broiler or prepare a gas stovetop burner.
- Roasting: Place the poblano peppers directly under the broiler or over the open flame. Turn them occasionally until all sides are charred and blackened.
- Steaming: Once charred, transfer the peppers to a plastic bag or a bowl covered with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes; this will loosen the skins.
- Peeling: After steaming, gently peel off the charred skins using your fingers or a paper towel. Avoid rinsing the peppers under water, as this can wash away flavorful oils.
- Seeding: Slice the peeled peppers open and remove the seeds and membranes.
This method ensures your peppers are perfectly roasted, adding a rich depth to your Espagueti Verde.
Additional Tips:
- Consistency Control: If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, gradually incorporate more milk or reserved pasta water until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Flavor Adjustments: Taste your sauce before combining it with the pasta. Adjust salt, pepper, or add a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors if needed.
- Spice Level: For a milder sauce, omit the serrano or jalapeño peppers. If you prefer more heat, include the seeds or add an extra pepper.
Recommended Products for Making Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti)
To make the perfect Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti), having the right kitchen tools and ingredients can make a big difference. Here are some recommended products that will help you achieve the best results.
Must-Have Kitchen Tools for a Perfect Espagueti Verde Recipe
- Blender or Food Processor – A high-powered blender ensures a smooth and creamy poblano sauce.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Broiler – Ideal for roasting poblano peppers evenly.
- Large Pot – A wide pot allows pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Tongs and Wooden Spoon – Helps toss the pasta with the sauce while keeping everything well coated.
Choosing the Best Ingredients for a Flavor-Packed Green Spaghetti
- Pasta Choices – Classic spaghetti works best, but you can also try fettuccine or linguine.
- Mexican Crema – Adds an authentic tangy richness to the sauce.
- Cotija Cheese – The perfect salty and crumbly cheese for garnishing.
- Fresh Cilantro – Enhances the herby freshness of the sauce.
Using high-quality tools and ingredients makes a big difference in flavor and texture, ensuring your Green Spaghetti turns out delicious every time.
Nutrition Information
Espagueti Verde is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving.
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
Making Espagueti Verde Healthier
If you want to make this dish a bit lighter, consider these swaps:
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for crema Mexicana.
- Reduce cheese to cut down on saturated fat.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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FAQs About Green Spaghetti
Can I make green spaghetti without dairy?
✔ Yes! Replace cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or blended avocado.
What is the best pasta to use?
✔ Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine work best, but penne or rigatoni also hold sauce well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
✔ Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk or water when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
Conclusion: A Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Experience
This Green Spaghetti recipe is perfect for those looking for a vibrant, delicious, and customizable pasta dish. Whether you prefer Mexican green spaghetti with poblanos, a classic pesto spaghetti, or a creamy avocado pasta, this dish is easy to make and packed with nutrients!
Try it today and pair it with your favorite sides and drinks for a memorable meal! 🍝🌿💚