Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ripe avocados: The star of the show, giving this pasta its luscious, creamy texture.
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type): The perfect base for the creamy avocado sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the richness of the avocado.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Helps create a smooth, silky sauce while adding a lovely flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce and balances the richness of the avocado.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped): Adds a refreshing herbal note that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season to bring out all the flavors of the dish.
- Optional toppings: Red pepper flakes for a little heat, cherry tomatoes for a burst of color, or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta (I love using spaghetti for this recipe, but penne or fettuccine would work beautifully too). Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside. - Make the avocado sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to make the creamy avocado sauce. Cut your ripe avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a food processor or blender. Add the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency. - Toss the pasta with the sauce:
In a large bowl or back in the pasta pot, toss the cooked pasta with the creamy avocado sauce. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly. You want each noodle to be perfectly dressed in that creamy goodness. - Add fresh basil:
Gently stir in the fresh chopped basil for a burst of fresh flavor. You can add more basil if you love it, but a little goes a long way here! - Taste and adjust:
Give your pasta a taste. Does it need a little more salt? Maybe a squeeze of extra lemon juice for brightness? Adjust to your liking. - Serve and enjoy:
Divide the pasta into serving bowls and garnish with any additional toppings you like. Some fresh red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness, or a handful of cherry tomatoes for a pop of color all work great.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 8g