Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes but want a healthier alternative, this Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta is the perfect choice. The avocado not only gives the pesto a silky texture but also adds healthy fats and nutrients. The fresh basil and garlic keep the pesto classic, while the lemon juice brightens up the entire dish. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and offers a unique twist on the classic pesto pasta. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, making it great for various dietary needs!

Ingredients

For the avocado pesto:

• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts, for a cheaper alternative)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)

For the pasta:

• 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fusilli, penne, etc.)
• Salt (for the pasta water)

For garnish (optional):

• Chopped fresh basil
• Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
• Grated vegan Parmesan or regular Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the avocado pesto:
   In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss the pasta:
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the avocado pesto. Toss until the pasta is well-coated with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to help it coat the pasta evenly.
4. Serve:
   Divide the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, and grated vegan Parmesan or regular Parmesan cheese, if desired.
5. Enjoy:
   Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, vibrant flavors of this avocado pesto pasta!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For extra protein, add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. You can also add a sprinkle of hemp seeds for a plant-based protein boost.
• Vegan Option: This recipe is already vegan, but be sure to use a dairy-free cheese if you’re adding Parmesan.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto for a bit of heat or stir in some diced chili peppers for more spice.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a lower-carb option, swap the pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a fresh, veggie-packed dish.
• Roasted Veggies: Top your pasta with roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
• Creamier Version: Add a spoonful of tahini or cashew butter to the pesto for an even richer, creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The avocado pesto may oxidize slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
• Freezing: Pesto pasta doesn’t freeze very well, as the creamy texture of the avocado may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pesto (without pasta) for up to 1 month. Just thaw and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or water to bring the creamy texture back. You can also microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different nut for the pesto?

Yes! You can substitute pine nuts with other nuts like walnuts, cashews, or almonds. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but all work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the avocado pesto ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To keep the pesto green, cover the surface with plastic wrap or drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before sealing.

3. Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time, but the fresh avocado pesto adds a creamy texture and a unique flavor that store-bought versions may not have.

4. Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta. The creamy avocado pesto pairs well with all pasta shapes!

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, you can stir in red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some diced chili peppers into the pesto. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for more flavor and texture. Toss the veggies with the pasta before serving.

7. Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Yes! If you have a nut allergy or simply prefer to avoid nuts, you can omit them and substitute with sunflower seeds or omit entirely. The pesto will still be delicious, although it will have a slightly different texture.

8. Can I use a different herb instead of basil?

While basil is traditional for pesto, you can experiment with other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even mint. Each herb will create a unique flavor profile for the pesto.

9. Can I make this pesto without garlic?

Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the garlic. The avocado and basil will still provide plenty of flavor in the pesto.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta, and the dish will be completely gluten-free and just as delicious.

Conclusion

This Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, zesty, and fresh flavors. The avocado adds a rich, velvety texture to the pesto, making it both indulgent and nutritious. It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a healthier pasta dish or want to try something new, this creamy pesto pasta will become a favorite in your kitchen! Enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite protein or veggies for a complete meal.

Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

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This Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta is a rich and velvety twist on traditional pesto, using avocado for a creamy texture without cream. Combined with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts, this dish is vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious. Perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a healthier pasta alternative.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 2-3 servings
• Category: Dinner, Pasta
• Method: Stovetop, Blender
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

1. 1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped
2. 1 cup fresh basil leaves
3. 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts, for a cheaper alternative)
4. 2 cloves garlic
5. 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
6. 1/4 cup olive oil
7. Salt and pepper to taste
8. 1–2 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
9. 12 oz pasta of your choice (spaghetti, fusilli, penne, etc.)
10. Salt (for the pasta water)
11. Chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
12. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
13. Grated vegan Parmesan or regular Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, and set aside.

1. In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the avocado pesto. Toss until the pasta is well-coated with the pesto. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to help it coat the pasta evenly.
3. Divide the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, and grated vegan Parmesan or regular Parmesan cheese, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, vibrant flavors of this avocado pesto pasta!

Notes

1. For added protein, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. Hemp seeds also make a great plant-based protein boost.
2. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the pesto.
3. If you prefer a lower-carb option, swap pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles).
4. Add roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
5. For an even creamier texture, add tahini or cashew butter to the pesto.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg