How to Make Creamy Avocado Basil Pesto Pasta at Home
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious pasta recipe, creamy avocado basil pesto pasta is a fantastic choice. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with healthy ingredients. The creamy avocado gives this dish a beautiful texture, while the basil brings a burst of fresh, herby flavor. The best part? It’s simple to make and uses basic ingredients you might already have at home. Let’s jump into how you can prepare this crowd-pleaser in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Creamy avocado basil pesto pasta is not only tasty but also a healthier option compared to traditional cream-based pasta sauces. Avocado offers healthy fats and a velvety texture, while fresh basil adds a fragrant twist. It’s vegetarian-friendly, but you can easily tweak the recipe by adding your favorite proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. Plus, the entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this recipe are simple and fresh. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Pesto Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegans, you can leave it out or use a plant-based alternative)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces (about 225g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- Water and a pinch of salt to cook the pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- Once the water is boiling, add your pasta. Cook it according to the instructions on the package (usually 8–12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta).
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This water can be used later to thin the pesto sauce if needed.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Basil Pesto
- Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a blender or food processor.
- Add the fresh basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If the pesto seems too thick, you can add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Taste the pesto and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a little extra lemon juice for brightness or more salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Pesto
- Add the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl or back into the pot you used to cook it (while it’s still warm).
- Pour the avocado basil pesto over the pasta. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the pasta until it’s evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water to make it silky and smooth.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls.
- For extra flavor and texture, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil leaves, or a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you like a little heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy avocado basil pesto pasta while it’s fresh.
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the Right Avocado: Make sure your avocado is ripe. A ripe avocado will be slightly soft when you gently press it. If it’s rock-hard, give it a few extra days to ripen.
- Add Protein or Veggies: You can make this dish heartier by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The avocado pesto may darken slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This creamy avocado basil pesto pasta ticks all the boxes—it’s quick, easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a great alternative to traditional pasta dishes and perfect for both casual weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of avocado and basil pesto creates a sauce that feels indulgent but is wholesome at the same time. Plus, it’s a dish that’s easy to tweak to match your preferences.
So, grab your ingredients, and try this recipe today. You’ll be amazed by how simple yet impressive it is to make creamy avocado basil pesto pasta at home! Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this pasta is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!
