Creamy Avocado Pasta Recipe - Quick & Delicious
Ah, the first time I made this creamy avocado pasta recipe—it was one of those weeknights when I was dead tired, you know? I just wanted something easy that didn’t feel like a total chore. So, I snatched up a couple of perfectly ripe avocados sitting on my counter, and I was pleasantly surprised at how, in just a few minutes, I had this creamy, dreamy dish that honestly tasted totally indulgent. I mean, it’s rich but still healthy, right? Over the years, this recipe has become my go-to. You just can’t beat how quick it is to whip up—like, blink and it's on the table. And avocados? They’re not just trendy; they make everything better. Seriously, you toss them with some garlic, a squeeze of lemon, maybe a sprinkle of chili flakes if you’re feeling spicy, and it’s like magic. And here’s the thing: this dish is perfect for those cozy nights in or when you’ve got friends over and want to impress without breaking a sweat. I remember one time, I made it for a small gathering, and everyone was asking for the recipe. If that's not a win, I don't know what is! Trust me, you’ve gotta give this a shot!
❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's incredibly quick to make, ready in just 20 minutes.
- Packed with healthy fats from avocados.
- Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Creamy and satisfying without the need for heavy cream.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party.
- A delightful way to enjoy pasta while keeping it light.
🥘 Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti or your choice) — Cook according to package instructions.
- 2 ripe avocados — Pitted and peeled.
- 2 cloves garlic — Minced.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice — Freshly squeezed.
- 1/4 cup olive oil — Extra virgin for best flavor.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese — Grated, plus more for serving.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt — Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — Freshly cracked.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes — Halved, for garnish.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves — Chopped, for garnish.
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make sure to salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor. - 2
While the pasta is cooking, combine the avocados, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste the avocado sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. - 3
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, return it to the pot. Pour the avocado sauce over the hot pasta and toss to combine until everything is nicely coated.
If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. - 4
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with cherry tomatoes and chopped basil. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Drizzling a little extra olive oil over the top adds a lovely touch. - 5
Enjoy your creamy avocado pasta with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pair it with a light white wine for a lovely dinner experience.
💡 Tips & Tricks
- Use ripe avocados for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Add spinach or kale to the avocado sauce for extra greens.
- Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- This pasta is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for leftovers.
🔄 Variations
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Toss cooked shrimp with the pasta for added protein.
- Roasted Vegetable: Add roasted zucchini and bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Creamy Avocado & Pesto: Mix in some basil pesto for a herby twist.
- Avocado Alfredo: Add a bit of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
📦 Storage Instructions
📊 Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 bowl |
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Total Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 8g |