Avocado Pesto Pasta

This Avocado Pesto Pasta recipe will be your new go-to dinner when you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish.

This healthier spin on classic pesto pasta uses avocado to create a rich and velvety sauce that is packed with nutrients and flavor.

The fresh basil, lemon juice, and garlic create an irresistible aroma, and the whole dish is ready in under 30 minutes.

A perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love!

Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesYield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado pesto sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to thin the sauce and evenly coat the pasta.
4. Divide the pasta among four plates, garnish with cherry tomatoes if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips and Tricks:

• For an extra boost of protein, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish.
• If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with toasted almonds or walnuts.
• The avocado pesto sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before using.

Nutritional Information:

Substitution Options:

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
• For a vegan option, substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese.

Wine Pairing:

A crisp and fruity Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio would complement the fresh flavors and creaminess of the avocado pesto sauce.