Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this avocado basil pasta recipe! It’s one of my go-to meals when I want something fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-simple. You know those days when you just want to whip up something quick but still want it to taste like a million bucks? This dish is your answer! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a creamy, dreamy sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta. And the best part? It’s totally vegetarian, so it’s great for everyone at the table.
Picture this: you’ve got perfectly cooked pasta, tossed in a luscious avocado sauce that’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh basil and garlic. It’s a delightful marriage of creaminess and zest that makes you feel like you’re dining at a fancy Italian restaurant, but you’re actually just at home, whipping it up in about 20 minutes! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. So, are you ready to dive into this deliciousness?
Ingredients for Avocado Basil Pasta Recipe
Gather these simple, fresh ingredients to create your avocado basil pasta masterpiece:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice: spaghetti, penne, or fusilli works great!)
- 2 ripe avocados (make sure they’re soft but not overripe)
- 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves (the more, the merrier!)
- 2 cloves garlic (adjust based on your love for garlic!)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
- Salt to taste (don’t skimp on this, it really brings out the flavors)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite!)
How to Prepare the Avocado Basil Pasta Recipe
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious avocado basil pasta! I promise, it’s super easy and totally rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring every bite in no time!
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s cook that pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt; it really helps to flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is bubbling, toss in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. You want it al dente, so don’t forget to taste it a minute or two before the timer goes off. It should have a little bite to it, not mushy. When it’s done, drain it but save about a cup of that starchy pasta water—trust me, it’ll come in handy later!
Making the Avocado Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, let’s whip up that creamy avocado sauce! Grab your blender (or food processor, if you have one) and throw in the ripe avocados, fresh basil leaves, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Blend away until it’s super smooth and creamy—this is where the magic happens! If it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect consistency. You want it silky and luscious, so feel free to taste and adjust with salt and pepper as you go. Wow, it smells amazing already!
Combining the Ingredients
Now for the grand finale! Return the drained pasta to the pot and pour that dreamy avocado sauce over it. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated—oh, it looks so good! If it feels a bit dry, add a little more of that reserved pasta water until you get the desired creaminess. Finish it off with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top for that restaurant-worthy touch. Serve it up immediately while it’s still warm, and watch everyone dig in with big smiles on their faces. You’ve just made something truly special!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 20 minutes!
- Fresh, vibrant ingredients that make every bite a joy.
- Creamy, flavorful avocado sauce that’s a healthy twist on traditional pasta sauces.
- Totally vegetarian and packed with nutrients, perfect for everyone!
- Customizable: adjust the garlic and cheese to suit your taste.
- A delightful way to enjoy seasonal basil when it’s at its peak.
- Perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week!
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my best tips to make sure your avocado basil pasta turns out perfectly every single time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish and impress anyone you serve it to.
- Perfect Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe but not overripe. You want them to be soft enough to blend easily, but firm enough to hold their shape. Give them a gentle squeeze; they should yield slightly.
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, go ahead and stick with the two cloves! But if you’re sensitive to garlic’s punch, start with one and taste the sauce before adding more. You can always add but can’t take away!
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget that reserved pasta water! Adding a splash can help loosen up the sauce and create a silky texture. It’s like liquid gold for your pasta dish!
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra kick, try squeezing a bit of fresh lemon juice over the pasta right before serving. It brightens the flavors beautifully! Also, don’t be shy with the basil garnish; it looks gorgeous and adds a fragrant touch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is fantastic for meal prep! Just keep the pasta and sauce separate until you’re ready to eat. This way, you’ll avoid mushy pasta and can enjoy that fresh taste all week long.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to mix in some cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even grilled chicken if you’re looking to add a little protein. It’s all about making it your own!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious avocado basil pasta that’s bound to be a hit. Enjoy the cooking process, and remember to have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this avocado basil pasta recipe! Remember, these values are estimates, but they give you a great idea of what you’re putting into your body. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
This dish is not only delicious but also a great source of healthy fats from the avocados and plenty of fiber from the pasta! Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a wholesome choice for everyone. So, enjoy every creamy bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use different pasta types?
Absolutely! This avocado basil pasta recipe is super versatile when it comes to pasta types. You can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor. Gluten-free pasta works just as well if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions. I’ve even made it with zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a fun, low-carb twist! Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different types of pasta can vary quite a bit.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Just transfer any uneaten avocado basil pasta to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll last for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it on the stove over low heat. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or olive oil to loosen it up a bit. Microwaving works too, but be careful not to overcook it, or you’ll lose that lovely creamy texture!
Can I add protein?
For sure! Adding protein is a fantastic way to make this dish even heartier. Grilled chicken or shrimp are both great options that pair beautifully with the creamy avocado sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try tossing in some chickpeas or white beans for a boost of protein and fiber. You could also sprinkle in some feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Tomato Basil Pasta.
Print
Avocado Basil Pasta Recipe: 7 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and flavorful avocado basil pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a blender, combine avocados, basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Pour the avocado sauce over the pasta and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust garlic based on your preference.
- This dish is best served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: avocado basil pasta recipe
