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Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 117 reviews

This Avocado Pesto Pasta recipe blends creamy ripe avocados with fresh basil and pine nuts to create a vibrant, nutritious sauce that pairs perfectly with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat, suitable for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (such as spaghetti or penne)
  • Salt (for pasta water)

For the Avocado Pesto:

  • 2 ripe avocados (pitted and peeled)
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Avocado Pesto: In a food processor, combine the avocados, basil leaves, pine nuts, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Pulse until smooth. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to thin it. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the avocado pesto. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this fresh and creamy pasta dish.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Replace pine nuts with walnuts or almonds if preferred or to save on cost.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and garlic to your taste preferences.
  • If the pesto is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water for a perfect sauce consistency.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional and can be omitted or substituted with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.

Keywords: avocado pesto pasta, healthy pasta recipe, gluten-free pasta, avocado sauce, quick pasta meal, vegetarian pasta

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