Espagueti verde, or Mexican green spaghetti, is a vibrant pasta dish. It mixes roasted poblano peppers’ earthy taste with dairy’s richness. This recipe is quick, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s great for any time, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special event.
It can be a main dish or a side. This creamy, flavorful espagueti verde will surely please your palate.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Espagueti verde is a traditional Mexican pasta dish made with a creamy roasted poblano pepper sauce.
- The dish is known for its vibrant green color and unique flavor profile, combining the earthiness of poblano peppers with the richness of dairy ingredients.
- Poblano peppers, the main ingredient, are widely available in grocery stores in the US and are a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine.
- The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as adding jalapeño or serrano peppers for extra heat.
- Espagueti verde is a popular choice for family gatherings and special occasions due to its crowd-pleasing flavor.
Understanding Mexican Green Spaghetti
Espagueti verde, or Mexican green spaghetti, is a dish that mixes Italian pasta with Mexican flavors. It comes from Puebla and uses poblano peppers for a creamy sauce. This sauce coats the pasta perfectly.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The history of espagueti verde is tied to Mexico’s rich food culture. Italian and Mexican cooking styles blend here. Poblano peppers give it a green color and a smoky-sweet taste.
Traditional Serving Occasions
Espagueti verde is a hit at special times, especially Christmas. It can be a main dish or a side. It goes well with barbacoa, carnitas, or grilled meats. It’s a favorite in Mexican food.
Regional Variations
Though espagueti verde stays the same in Mexico, there are local twists. Some add cilantro, spinach, or tomatillos. These changes show the dish’s flexibility and depth.
“Espagueti verde is a true fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, creating a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.”
Essential Ingredients for Espagueti Verde
To make a delicious pasta verde recipe, you need a few key ingredients. The main ingredient is the poblano peppers. They add a unique flavor and a bit of heat. You’ll also need spaghetti noodles, Mexican crema, onion, garlic, and fresh cilantro.
Selecting the Right Poblano Peppers
Poblano peppers are key in espagueti verde. They give the dish its green color and a mild, earthy taste. Choose large, dark green peppers that are firm and have no blemishes. You can find them in most grocery stores.
Dairy Components
The sauce in pasta verde is creamy and rich. It’s made with Mexican crema, a tangy sour cream-like ingredient. But you can also use regular sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Additional Ingredients and Substitutions
You’ll also need onion, garlic, and fresh cilantro. Some recipes add jalapeños or serranos for more heat. For a vegan version, use coconut cream or cashew-based creams instead of dairy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti Noodles | 12 oz (340g) |
| Poblano Peppers | 4 large |
| Mexican Crema | 1 cup (240ml) |
| Cilantro | 1 bunch, stems removed |
| Onion | 1/2 cup (80g), diced |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Butter | 2 Tbsp (28g) |
| Salt | 1 tsp, or to taste |
Preparing the Poblano Peppers
The secret to a great espagueti verde (Mexican green spaghetti) is in the poblano peppers. These mild chili peppers add a smoky, sweet flavor. It’s what makes the dish special.
Start by picking 4 large, fresh poblano peppers. Rinse them and dry them with a towel. Then, char the peppers over a gas stove flame or under a hot broiler. Turn them until the skin is black and blistered.
After charring, put the peppers in a bowl and cover it. Let them steam for 10-15 minutes. This makes the skin easy to peel. Remove the skin, slice the peppers, and take out the seeds and membranes.
Now, the roasted poblano peppers are ready. You can start making the creamy green sauce. This sauce will coat the spaghetti perfectly.
Creating the Perfect Creamy Green Sauce
The secret to a great spaghetti verde poblano dish is the creamy green sauce. This sauce combines roasted poblano peppers, dairy, garlic, onion, and fresh cilantro. It’s the heart of the recipe.
Blending Techniques
To get the sauce just right, blend it until it’s smooth and creamy. A high-powered blender or food processor works best. A few pulses can help mix everything well, making the sauce velvety.
Achieving the Ideal Consistency
The creamy green sauce needs to coat the spaghetti well but not too thick. Start with crema Mexicana or sour cream and a bit of pasta water. Add more water or heavy cream if it’s too thick.
Keep tasting the sauce and adjust the seasoning. Use salt, pepper, and a bit of sugar to balance the flavors. The goal is to make the sauce enhance the sweetness of the poblanos and the pasta.
“The secret to a truly outstanding spaghetti verde poblano lies in the balance of the creamy green sauce. It’s a delicate dance of flavors that brings the entire dish together.”
Cooking the Perfect Pasta
To make the perfect al dente pasta for your Espagueti Verde, follow these tips:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook as the package says, stirring now and then. Stop when it’s just right – a bit firm but still tender.
- Before draining, save about 1 cup of the water. This water will help your sauce stick to the pasta.
- Drain the spaghetti well, but don’t rinse it. The starch on it will help the sauce stick better.
Timing is key when cooking al dente pasta. If it’s too soft, it won’t match the Espagueti Verde sauce’s bright flavors. Check the pasta a minute or two before it’s done to get it just right.
With these spaghetti cooking tips, you’re on your way to a tasty Mexican Espagueti Verde. It will highlight the fresh, creamy sauce and the al dente pasta perfectly.
Assembling Your Espagueti Verde
It’s time to bring your mexican green spaghetti recipe to life. Start by mixing the cooked pasta with the creamy green sauce. Gently toss until the spaghetti is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some pasta water to get the right consistency.
Garnishing Options
Now, add the final touches to your dish. Popular choices for garnishing pasta include:
- Crumbled queso cotija or queso fresco for a tangy, salty kick
- Grated parmesan cheese for a savory, umami-rich accent
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for a burst of herbal fragrance and flavor
For a more filling meal, add sautéed chicken or shrimp. These will pair well with the creamy mexican green spaghetti recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked spaghetti | 12 oz |
| Green sauce | 2 cups |
| Queso cotija, crumbled | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Your final dish should be a vibrant, flavorful celebration of Mexican cuisine. The mexican green spaghetti recipe will be the star, with garnishes adding the perfect touch of texture and flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Your delicious espagueti rojo can be easily stored and reheated for future enjoyment. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
To reheat, use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place the pasta in a safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring often, until warm. If the sauce is too thick, add water, heavy cream, or milk.
For the stovetop, put the pasta in a skillet or saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring often, until warm. Add a bit of liquid if the sauce gets too thick. With these steps, you can enjoy your espagueti rojo again and again.
FAQ
What is Espagueti Verde?
Espagueti Verde is a tasty Mexican pasta dish. It’s made with a creamy sauce from roasted poblano peppers. This dish is known for its bright green color and unique taste, blending the earthiness of poblano peppers with creamy ingredients.
Where does Espagueti Verde originate from?
It comes from Mexican cuisine, with a focus on poblano peppers from Puebla. It’s a favorite during holidays, especially Christmas.
What are the key ingredients in Espagueti Verde?
The main ingredients are poblano peppers, spaghetti, and dairy like Mexican crema or sour cream. You’ll also need onion, garlic, and cilantro. Poblano peppers are key for the authentic taste and are found in most stores.
How do you prepare the poblano peppers for Espagueti Verde?
Roasting the peppers is essential. You can char them on a gas stove or under a broiler. Then, steam them in a covered bowl to remove the skin. This step enhances the flavor, adding depth to the dish.
How do you make the creamy green sauce for Espagueti Verde?
Blend roasted poblanos with dairy, garlic, onion, and cilantro until smooth. The sauce should be creamy but not too thick. Use pasta water or more cream if needed. Make sure to blend well for a smooth texture. You can adjust the flavor by tweaking the garlic or adding jalapeños for spice.
How do you cook the pasta for Espagueti Verde?
Cook spaghetti in salted water until it’s al dente. Follow the package instructions. Save some pasta water before draining to adjust the sauce’s consistency later. The pasta should have a slight bite and hold the sauce well.
How do you assemble and serve Espagueti Verde?
Mix the cooked pasta with the green sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Add pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Top with crumbled queso cotija or grated parmesan cheese. Some like to add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for flavor and presentation.
How do you store and reheat leftover Espagueti Verde?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of water or olive oil to prevent drying. Use the microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
Mexican Espagueti Verde (Green Spaghetti)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Blender or food processor
- Skillet or saucepan
Ingredients
- 12 oz 340g Spaghetti Noodles
- 4 large Poblano Peppers
- 1 cup 240ml Mexican Crema (or sour cream)
- 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro stems removed
- 1/2 cup 80g Onion, diced
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 2 Tbsp 28g Butter
- 1 tsp Salt or to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Poblano Peppers:
- Char the poblano peppers over a gas stove or under a broiler until the skin is blackened. Place in a bowl and cover, letting them steam for 10-15 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove seeds and membranes, and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Green Sauce:
- In a blender, combine the roasted poblano peppers, Mexican crema, cilantro, onion, garlic, and butter. Blend until smooth. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water, if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the cooked pasta with the green sauce until well coated. Add additional pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Garnish and Serve:
- Top with crumbled queso cotija or parmesan cheese, and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition
Source Links
- Mexican Green Spaghetti Recipe (Espagueti Verde) | Mexican Made Meatless™ – https://mexicanmademeatless.com/espagueti-verde-creamy-poblano-spaghetti/
- Espagueti Verde – Beryl Shereshewsky – https://www.beryl.nyc/index.php/2023/12/28/espagueti-verde/
- Mexican green Spaghetti (espagueti verde) – Ale Cooks – https://www.alecooks.com/vegan-spaguetti-verde-espagueti-verde/
- Mexican Spaghetti (Mexican “Pesto”) – https://healthysimpleyum.com/mexican-spaghetti/
- Tallarines Verdes (Peruvian Green Spaghetti) – Chocolates & Chai – https://www.chocolatesandchai.com/tallarines-verdes-peruvian-green-spaghetti/
- Espagueti Verde (Mexican Green Spaghetti) Recipe – Mashed – https://www.mashed.com/1486144/espagueti-verde-mexican-green-spaghetti-recipe/
- Creamy Poblano Spaghetti (Espagueti Verde) – https://lifecurrentsblog.com/creamy-poblano-spaghetti-espagueti-verde/
- Spaghetti Verde (Green Spaghetti) | Espresso My Kitchen – https://www.espressomykitchen.com/spaghetti-verde/
- Espagueti Verde (Mexican Green Spaghetti) – https://gypsyplate.com/espagueti-verde/
- Spaghetti Verde (Mexican Spaghetti with Creamy Poblano Sauce) – House of Nash Eats – https://houseofnasheats.com/spaghetti-verde/
- Green Spaghetti (with Creamy Poblano Pepper Sauce) – https://dizzybusyandhungry.com/green-spaghetti/
- Green Spaghetti – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/green-spaghetti-recipe/?srsltid=AfmBOoorRt3V7dKz8UVQySMktMqlGqrb1pdFQFbyVYhWpagTNIxkw54_
- Espagueti Verde (Mexican Green Spaghetti) Recipe – https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/espagueti-verde-mexican-green-spaghetti-170056438.html
- Pasta in Green Sauce (Green Pasta) – Delish Knowledge – https://www.delishknowledge.com/pasta-in-green-sauce-green-pasta/
- Tallarines Verdes – https://www.acozykitchen.com/tallarines-verde-a-re-do
- Green Spaghetti – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/green-spaghetti-recipe/?srsltid=AfmBOoqshmquSK93VgcbYgcC-krzYUwFlYQzyLEhBronYDydjvQqGaea
- 32 Different Ways to Make Spaghetti – https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/twists-on-spaghetti/?srsltid=AfmBOooR-qlDAavdzfdOMMGyFypKUWvxTJiEPsztjWRebLcCZDpJHNlO
- Green Spaghetti – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/green-spaghetti-recipe/?srsltid=AfmBOoqPJMpixN5Xfq1Jbg1rAIJwUX49QKbrUM7XABvfXwQHim3iJciZ
- Chile Verde – Isabel Eats – https://www.isabeleats.com/mexican-pork-chile-verde/
- Espagueti Rojo – Isabel Eats – https://www.isabeleats.com/espagueti-rojo/
- Green Spaghetti (Espagueti verde) with poblano sauce – https://www.nobleveggies.com/green-spaghetti-espagueti-verde-with-poblano-sauce/