Avocado Pesto

Avocado pesto pasta is a vibrant, creamy dish that combines the fresh flavors of basil and ripe avocado with a hint of lemon for a unique and delicious sauce. This healthy and flavorful pasta sauce clings beautifully to spaghetti, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and irresistible taste.

Ingredients for Avocado Pesto

• Spaghetti: The pasta provides a firm base that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce, creating a satisfying bite. For a gluten-free option, use rice or quinoa pasta. Whole wheat spaghetti can be used for a nuttier taste and as an additional source of fiber.
• Avocado: Ripe avocado is the key ingredient here, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor to the sauce. For a lower-fat option, you can use half an avocado and blend it with Greek yogurt.
• Basil leaves: The traditional pesto herb, basil contributes a fresh, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you don’t have basil, fresh spinach or arugula can be used as alternatives.
• Olive oil: The olive oil helps to create a smooth and silky sauce. For a lighter version, use avocado oil or a light vegetable oil.
• Lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the avocado. Lime juice can be used for a slightly different citrus note.
• Garlic: Garlic adds depth of flavor and a bit of a kick to the sauce. For a milder taste, use roasted garlic.
• Optional toppings: Shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese and grated lime zest will add extra layers of flavor and texture. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan substitute for cheese.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the spaghetti

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Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce and make it cling to the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the avocado pesto sauce

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While the pasta cooks, place the avocado, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper in a food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine the pasta and sauce

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Return the drained pasta to the pan. Add the avocado pesto sauce and toss to coat the pasta thoroughly. 

Step 4: Serve and garnish

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Serve the pasta immediately, topped with shredded Parmesan, mozzarella and lime zest, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.

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Avocado Pesto Variations

• Add protein: Make the dish more filling by adding grilled chicken, shrimp or tofu.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili crisp for heat.
• Add pine nuts: Sprinkle some pine nuts atop the finished pasta for added texture.
• Go green: Add sauteed spinach, peas or kale to enhance the nutritional value.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in a spoonful of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for an even creamier sauce.

How to Store Avocado Pesto

Store leftover avocado pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to the avocado, it’s best to consume within one day to prevent oxidation and browning.

Can you make avocado pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado pesto sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface of the pesto to prevent browning. Refrigerate it for up to two days, and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Avocado Pesto Tips

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Can you use other types of noodles in avocado pesto pasta?

Use whatever noodles you have on hand in place of the spaghetti. The easiest swaps for long noodles are linguine or bucatini, but others will work fine as well. Check out our ultimate guide to pasta shapes for more ideas.

What else can you put in pesto pasta with avocado?

Make this creamy avocado pesto pasta a more complete meal by adding your favorite protein like chicken or tofu. Keep the recipe vegan by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or add queso fresco instead of the optional mozzarella and Parmesan.

How long will leftover avocado pesto pasta last?

While most pasta recipes would last in the fridge for a few days, we recommend eating avocado pesto pasta fresh because the avocado will start to oxidize and change in color.

What else can I do with avocado pesto?

Avocado pesto is very versatile. You can use it as a spread on sandwiches and wraps, as a dip for fresh vegetables or chips, or as a topping for avocado toast. It also makes a great addition to salads, to grains like quinoa, and even as a flavorful sauce for roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.