Mexican Green Spaghetti is a vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to your table. This unique pasta preparation combines the earthy taste of roasted poblano peppers with the creamy richness of Mexican crema and cream cheese. It’s not only pleasing to the eye but also offers a delightful medley of flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an exciting dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why We Love This Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore Mexican Green Spaghetti. For starters, it takes familiar ingredients and combines them in an unexpected way, making it a standout dish that can excite the palate. The blend of roasted poblano peppers with fresh cilantro creates a bright and zesty sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti. Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer a little heat or want to keep it mild, you can adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients about Mexican Green Spaghetti
To whip up this delicious Mexican Green Spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 2 medium poblano peppers
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 cup Mexican crema
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. The roasted peppers provide a smoky depth while the crema and cream cheese ensure a luscious, creamy texture.
How to Make Mexican Green Spaghetti Directions
Let’s dive into the preparation of this scrumptious dish. Follow these straightforward steps to make your Mexican Green Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the instructions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but reserve about a cup of pasta water for later use.
- Roast the poblanos: While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to roast your poblano peppers. You can do this either over an open flame on your stovetop or under the broiler in your oven. Roast them until the skin is fully charred, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool and peel: After roasting, let the peppers cool slightly. Once they are cool enough to handle, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and chop them into smaller pieces.
- Chop the bell pepper: Take your bell pepper, wash it, and chop it into more manageable pieces. No need to be perfect; just aim for small chunks.
- Blend the sauce: In a blender, combine the chopped poblano peppers, bell pepper, fresh cilantro leaves, Mexican crema, and cream cheese. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth, and set it aside.
- Heat the sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, pour in the blended sauce. Season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Heat the sauce gently, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through.
- Toss spaghetti with sauce: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the pan with the sauce. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce until it’s well coated. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the spaghetti. You can always add more salt or pepper if needed.
This process is simple yet rewarding, resulting in a gorgeous, creamy pasta dish that you and your family will want to enjoy time and time again.
How to Serve Mexican Green Spaghetti
Serving your Mexican Green Spaghetti is just as important as making it. Presentation can elevate your dining experience, so consider the following tips:
- Garnish generously: Once plated, add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves on top for vibrant color and freshness. If you enjoy cheese, consider adding crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese for an added creamy texture and salty flavor.
- Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed hot. As it cools, the sauce may thicken, so make sure to serve it immediately for the best experience.
- Accompany with sides: Mexican Green Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Optional protein additions: If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a side of black beans. These additions enhance the dish further and make it more filling.
Your table will be brightened with this colorful dish, and the inviting aroma will have everyone gathering around in anticipation of a fabulous meal.
Expert Tips: Mexican Green Spaghetti
For those who want to make the most out of their Mexican Green Spaghetti experience, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Roast the peppers properly: Ensure that the poblanos are well-charred for the best flavor. This caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.
- Adjusting spice levels: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a serrano pepper into your sauce mixture or drizzling some hot sauce over the finished dish. Conversely, if you prefer it milder, ensure all seeds are removed from the poblanos.
- Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your cilantro and peppers, the more vibrant and flavorful your dish will be. Opt for organic or locally sourced produce when possible.
- Experiment with creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cream cheese. Alternatively, if you like it lighter, you can reduce the cream cheese and add more Mexican crema or even sour cream.
- Create texture: Add nuts like toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch. This contrast enhances the eating experience.
By following these tips, you’re sure to impress anyone who has the pleasure of enjoying your homemade Mexican Green Spaghetti.
How to Store Mexican Green Spaghetti
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing your Mexican Green Spaghetti properly will help maintain its taste and texture:
- Cool down before storing: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can cause your dish to become soggy when stored.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer the cooled spaghetti into airtight containers. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors from your fridge.
- Refrigerate: Store the sealed containers in the refrigerator where the spaghetti can last for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing option: If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the spaghetti. Just make sure to use freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation of Mexican Green Spaghetti
One of the greatest joys of cooking is the ability to adapt and create variations based on your preferences. Here are some exciting ideas to customize your Mexican Green Spaghetti:
- Vegetarian delights: Add grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach into the dish. These vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients.
- Swap the pasta: While spaghetti is delicious, you could try using other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs.
- Add proteins: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or plant-based alternatives like chickpeas to add more texture and protein to your meal.
- Incorporate other herbs: While cilantro is a popular choice, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy twist: For a bolder flavor, incorporate diced jalapeños in the sauce or serve it with grilled jalapeño on top.
These variants allow you to personalize your Mexican Green Spaghetti while keeping the base recipe intact, making it an adaptable dish for any palate or occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mexican Green Spaghetti?
Mexican Green Spaghetti is a flavorful dish made with spaghetti pasta tossed in a creamy sauce made from roasted poblano peppers, bell peppers, cilantro, Mexican crema, and cream cheese.
How can I make Mexican Green Spaghetti spicier?
To add heat to your Mexican Green Spaghetti, consider incorporating jalapeños or serrano peppers into the sauce. Additionally, you can garnish the finished dish with your favorite hot sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use other pasta varieties such as fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta, depending on your preference.
How should I store Mexican Green Spaghetti leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
What can I serve with Mexican Green Spaghetti?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For added protein, grilled chicken or shrimp are great options.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to tackle the kitchen and create a mouth-watering Mexican Green Spaghetti that will delight your family and friends alike. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and delectable textures, and don’t forget to personalize it to suit your style!
Mexican Green Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta and Peppers
- 8 ounces spaghetti Cook until al dente.
- 2 medium poblano peppers Roasted and peeled.
- 1 any bell pepper Chopped.
Creamy Base
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves Fresh for best flavor.
- 1 cup Mexican crema For a rich and creamy sauce.
- 4 ounces cream cheese Can adjust for creaminess.
Seasoning
- Salt To taste.
- Pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the spaghetti.
- Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under the broiler until the skin is fully charred, about 5-7 minutes. Allow to cool, then peel, seed, and chop.
- Chop the bell pepper into small pieces.
Sauce Preparation
- In a blender, combine roasted poblano peppers, chopped bell pepper, cilantro leaves, Mexican crema, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth.
- In a large pan, heat the blended sauce over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir occasionally until warmed through.
Combine
- Add the drained spaghetti to the pan with the sauce, tossing until well coated. If the sauce is thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!