Creamy Avocado Pasta is a rich and velvety dish that combines the creamy texture of ripe avocado with the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan cheese to create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. This light yet indulgent sauce is not only dairy-free (if you opt for a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast), but it’s also packed with healthy fats and nutrients from the avocado. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—ready in just 20 minutes, it’s the perfect quick and easy meal when you want something comforting yet fresh. Tossed with pasta and topped with fresh basil, this Creamy Avocado Pasta feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it the perfect weeknight dinner, light lunch, or even a plant-based twist on traditional pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and scooped out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about ½ a lemon)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or use dairy-free Parmesan for a vegan version)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp pasta cooking water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
- Chopped cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of pasta cooking water before draining, and then set the cooked pasta aside.
- Make the Avocado Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, place the ripe avocado flesh into a food processor or blender. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the avocado sauce and toss to combine, making sure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Divide the creamy avocado pasta between serving plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and optional chopped cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and freshness.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this light yet satisfying dish!
