A quick and delicious creamy avocado pasta recipe made with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon juice. This healthy dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Lunch
Method:Blended Sauce
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1/4 cup nutritional yeast (optional, but recommended)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Pit and peel avocados, then roughly chop them.
Combine chopped avocados, basil, Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast (if using), garlic, lemon juice, water (or broth), salt, and pepper in a high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, adding more water if needed to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
If using, toast pine nuts in a small skillet over medium heat until lightly golden brown (3-5 minutes).
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Add drained pasta to a large bowl. Pour avocado cream sauce over pasta and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
Stir in toasted pine nuts (if using) and extra Parmesan cheese.
Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve immediately.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh, as the avocado may brown over time.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
For a richer sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or coconut cream.
Dried basil can be substituted for fresh (1 teaspoon dried basil = 1/2 cup fresh), but fresh is preferred.
Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or oregano.
Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
Use a vegan Parmesan cheese for a vegan version.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving
Calories:Approx. 450-550 kcal (will vary based on pasta and optional ingredients)