Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

 Looking for a quick dinner idea that’s as delicious as it is nutritious? Meet your new favorite healthy pasta recipe: Avocado Pesto Pasta. This dish combines the creamy richness of avocado with the fresh, herby flavor of basil pesto to create a velvety sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It’s satisfying, dairy-free, and ready in under 30 minutes! Whether you're feeding the family or whipping up a solo dinner, this creamy avocado sauce is guaranteed to please.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with heart-healthy fats from avocado, this pasta is as nourishing as it is indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• Customizable: Use your favorite pasta and add your choice of veggies or protein for a personal twist.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Avocado Pesto Pasta, you’ll need the following:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or linguine work great)
• Salt for pasta water

For the Avocado Pesto Sauce:

• 1 large ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor without dairy)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein
• A handful of arugula or spinach for added greens

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

2. Make the Avocado Pesto Sauce
   While the pasta cooks, combine the avocado, basil leaves, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, nutritional yeast, pine nuts (or walnuts), salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large bowl. Pour the avocado pesto sauce over the pasta and stir to coat each noodle in creamy goodness. Adjust seasonings to your taste.

4. Add Extras (Optional)
   For some extra color and flavor, toss in cherry tomatoes, spinach, or your favorite protein. Mix gently to combine.

5. Serve
   Dish out your Avocado Pesto Pasta into bowls, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for some extra flair, and enjoy!

Tips for Customizing Your Dish

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
• Extra Protein: Mix in grilled or roasted chicken, crispy chickpeas, or sautéed shrimp to make the dish more filling.
• Cheesy Topper: If you’re not avoiding dairy, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra punch of flavor.

Why It’s a Healthy Choice

The creamy avocado isn’t just delicious; it’s also loaded with healthy fats that are great for your heart and skin. The fresh basil adds anti-inflammatory properties, while the garlic and lemon juice boost immune support. Plus, using nutritional yeast keeps the dish dairy-free while adding a savory, cheesy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Avocado Pesto Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal. For a light and refreshing drink, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Final Thoughts

This Avocado Pesto Pasta is proof that healthy food can be quick, easy, and downright indulgent. Whether you're a pasta lover looking for a healthy twist or someone who craves creamy sauces without dairy, this dish will check all the boxes. Make it tonight for a fresh and satisfying dinner you’ll love coming back to again and again!