Love the creamy, herbaceous flavors of pesto but want something a little lighter? This Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta is a game-changer. By swapping out traditional heavy cream for ripe avocados, this dish is not only rich and luscious but also packed with healthy fats and nutrients. It’s the perfect way to indulge in comfort food without the guilt!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Imperial | Metric (grams) |
|---|---|---|
| Whole wheat or chickpea pasta | 12 oz | 340 g |
| Avocado (ripe) | 2 medium | ~300 g |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup | ~30 g |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | ~6 g |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 30 ml |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | 45 ml |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | 1/4 cup | 30 g |
| Salt | To taste | — |
| Black pepper | To taste | — |
| Cherry tomatoes (halved, optional) | 1 cup | 150 g |
Kitchen Accessories Needed
- Blender or food processor
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
- Make the Avocado Pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, basil leaves, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, parmesan cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Toss with Pasta: Return the cooked pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the avocado pesto over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Optional Additions: If desired, stir in halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with additional parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fats: 14 g
- Fiber: 8 g
Servings: 4
Recipe Origin: A modern take on traditional Italian pesto, inspired by California’s love for avocados.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Skip the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative like nutritional yeast.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Zucchini noodles, gluten-free pasta, or lentil-based pasta all work beautifully.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado pesto may darken slightly but will still taste great.
4. Can I freeze avocado pesto?
Yes! Freeze the pesto in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
5. What other toppings can I add?
Grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or toasted pine nuts make excellent additions to this dish.
6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the creamy texture and mild flavor of the avocado pesto.
This Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta is a simple, delicious way to elevate your pasta game while keeping it healthy and fresh. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a dish everyone will love. Ready to whip up this creamy masterpiece? Check out our Recommended Blender Here to make the smoothest pesto ever!
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