Avocado Basil Pasta

Avocado Basil Pasta is a creamy, fresh, and vibrant dish that combines the richness of ripe avocado with the aromatic flavor of basil for a unique take on traditional pasta. The creamy avocado sauce comes together quickly and provides a healthier alternative to heavy cream-based sauces. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is a deliciously easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Avocado Basil Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. The avocado adds a smooth, creamy texture without any dairy, making it perfect for those looking for a vegan or dairy-free option. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon creates a vibrant and zesty flavor profile, perfectly complementing the pasta. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, make the avocado basil sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and 1/4 cup of water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water if the sauce is too thick to blend.
3. Taste and season the sauce with salt and pepper. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the avocado basil sauce, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. Adjust the texture by adding more pasta water if needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and additional basil leaves.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: For a more filling meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for some plant-based protein.
• Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce.
• Use different herbs: While basil is the star here, you can experiment with other herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint to change up the flavor.
• Add veggies: Throw in some roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. The avocado sauce may darken slightly over time, but it will still taste great. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop, adding a bit more water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any type of pasta you like! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne or farfalle would work well with this creamy avocado basil sauce.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! Just skip the Parmesan cheese for a completely dairy-free dish.

3. What can I use if I don’t have a food processor or blender?

If you don’t have a food processor or blender, you can mash the avocado by hand and finely chop the basil and garlic. Then, mix everything together in a bowl with a whisk or spoon.

4. Can I make the avocado basil sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado basil sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To prevent browning, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce.

5. Can I freeze this pasta?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado sauce may not freeze well. However, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to a month. To use, thaw the sauce and then toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes would complement the creamy avocado sauce beautifully.

7. How do I make the sauce thinner?

If the sauce is too thick, simply add more water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency. You can also use some of the reserved pasta water to help thin it out.

8. Can I use store-bought pesto instead of fresh basil?

Yes, store-bought pesto can be used as a shortcut. Just blend it with the avocado and follow the rest of the recipe as directed. Keep in mind that pesto can be more flavorful, so you may need to adjust the seasoning.

9. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many great gluten-free options available, such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.

10. What can I serve with this pasta?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. It can also be served with a light protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu.

Conclusion

Avocado Basil Pasta is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that comes together quickly and satisfies your craving for a creamy pasta dish without the heaviness of cream. With the rich flavor of ripe avocado, fresh basil, and garlic, this pasta is light yet full of flavor. It’s easy to customize with your favorite additions, making it a versatile dish that’s perfect for a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a fresh dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Print