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Cherry Tomato Pasta with Avocado Sauce

1 review
Contest Ribbon Contest Winner
Test Kitchen Approved
Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

10 servings

Updated: Apr. 21, 2023
Heart-healthy avocado makes this pasta dish feel indulgent without being overly rich. The flavorful sauce is so luscious, you’ll think there is cream hiding in there. It’s guilt-free and dairy-free, but with a texture and consistency that’s similar to traditional cream-based sauces. —Julie Peterson, Crofton, Maryland
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Avocado Sauce
Cherry Tomato Pasta with Avocado Sauce Recipe photo by Taste of Home
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Ingredients

  • 1 package (14-1/2 ounces) protein-enriched rotini (about 3-1/2 cups uncooked)
  • 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup loosely packed basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves, halved
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup assorted cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts
  • Optional: Shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese and grated lime zest

Directions

  1. Cook rotini according to package directions for al dente. Meanwhile, place avocados, spinach, basil, garlic, lime juice, salt and pepper in a food processor; pulse until chopped. Continue processing while gradually adding oil in a steady stream.
  2. Drain rotini; transfer to a large bowl. Add avocado mixture and tomatoes; toss to coat. Sprinkle with pine nuts, and add toppings as desired.

Avocado Pasta Sauce Tips

Does avocado sauce turn brown?

Avocado sauce may turn slightly brown, which is natural and normal. However, the lime juice in the sauce will help slow the browning process.

Can you reheat avocado pasta?

Reheat this avocado pasta dish gently over low heat, stirring frequently.

How long does avocado pasta sauce last?

This avocado pasta sauce will last for 3 days in the fridge if you keep it covered tightly. However, it will start to brown slightly.

Research contributed by Sarah Fischer, Taste of Home Culinary Assistant

Nutrition Facts

3/4 cup: 314 calories, 18g fat (2g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 125mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 5g fiber), 9g protein.