Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I love making Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta during the warmer months when fresh ingredients are abundant. The smooth, creamy avocado combined with vibrant spring vegetables creates a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing. This meal is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or casual gatherings with friends. The hint of lemon juice brightens up the flavors, making every bite refreshing. Trust me, this pasta dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
When I first tried Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious such a dish could be. The secret lies in using perfectly ripe avocados blended until creamy, then mixed with fresh herbs and a hint of garlic for depth. I experimented with adding seasonal veggies like asparagus and peas, which not only added texture but also make it vibrant and colorful.
One tip I learned is to toss the pasta while it's still warm to ensure the avocado sauce clings beautifully. It’s an easy way to elevate a simple dish, ensuring that every bite is both satisfying and enjoyable. Enjoying this pasta with a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end truly makes it pop!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
- Loaded with fresh, vibrant vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Choosing the Right Pasta
For this Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta, spaghetti is a popular choice due to its ability to hold the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta types, such as penne or fettuccine, which can also work well. The important thing is to cook the pasta until al dente, which maintains a slight firmness that complements the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
When boiling the pasta, make sure to season the water generously with salt; it should taste like the sea. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; you can use this to adjust the creaminess of your avocado sauce if needed.
Perfecting the Avocado Sauce
The key to a smooth and creamy avocado sauce lies in using ripe avocados. Look for avocados that yield slightly to pressure but aren’t overly soft. If you only have firm avocados, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.
When blending the sauce, you want a silky consistency. If it appears too thick, add a little reserved pasta water or extra lemon juice to thin it out. This not only incorporates more flavor but also helps the sauce cling better to the pasta during mixing.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Avocado Sauce
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus and peas. Drain and set aside.
Make the Avocado Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, garlic, lemon juice, and basil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and vegetables with the avocado sauce. Toss until every pasta strand is well coated. Add additional lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding spinach or kale to the sauce. They blend well and add extra vitamins without altering the flavor much.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing the Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta with additional chopped basil, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or even toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch. You could also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil over the top for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A refreshing drink like homemade lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully, especially during spring and summer gatherings.
Storage and Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado sauce may darken as it oxidizes, but it is still safe to eat. To revive the dish, you can mix in a little fresh lemon juice or add a splash of olive oil when reheating.
Reheating should be done gently; use the stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you find the sauce too thick after refrigeration, mix in a small amount of warm water or stock to restore its creamy texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with whole wheat, gluten-free, or any pasta shape you prefer.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado sauce may brown slightly but will still taste great.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great choice for a vegan diet.
→ What can I add for extra protein?
You can add chickpeas or grilled chicken for additional protein if desired.
Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta
I love making Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta during the warmer months when fresh ingredients are abundant. The smooth, creamy avocado combined with vibrant spring vegetables creates a delightful dish that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing. This meal is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or casual gatherings with friends. The hint of lemon juice brightens up the flavors, making every bite refreshing. Trust me, this pasta dish will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
What You'll Need
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
Avocado Sauce
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus and peas. Drain and set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, garlic, lemon juice, and basil. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and vegetables with the avocado sauce. Toss until every pasta strand is well coated. Add additional lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- To make this dish even more nutritious, consider adding spinach or kale to the sauce. They blend well and add extra vitamins without altering the flavor much.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g