Description
Avocado Pesto Pasta is a creamy, fresh, and vibrant twist on traditional pesto pasta. The addition of creamy avocado to the classic pesto sauce creates a rich, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with pasta. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and nutrients, making it a great option for a light, yet filling meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant dish for a special occasion, Avocado Pesto Pasta will become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Scale
Gather these ingredients to make your Avocado Pesto Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work well)
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup pine nuts or walnuts (or more to taste)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or use a vegan alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup water (or more for desired sauce consistency)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)
Instructions
Make the Pesto Sauce:
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts (or walnuts), Parmesan (if using), lemon juice, olive oil, and nutritional yeast (optional).
- Blend the Pesto: Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped and smooth. Add water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy but not too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
- Combine the Pasta and Pesto: Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the avocado pesto sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Serve and Garnish:
- Serve: Divide the pasta among serving plates. Optionally, top with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh basil, or a few extra pine nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately while the pasta is warm, and enjoy the creamy, fresh, and flavorful meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g