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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.

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)

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

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/creamy-avocado-pesto-pasta-recipe/