Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a creamy, dreamy twist? Dive into the world of "Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta," where the rich, buttery goodness of ripe avocados meets the vibrant freshness of basil, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this Italian-inspired delight that will leave your taste buds singing and your friends begging for the recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this vegan pasta is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to make this simple yet sensational meal!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz pasta of choice
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Select your preferred pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the avocado pesto. Cut the ripe avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Add fresh basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, pine nuts, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the food processor with the avocado.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the processor as needed to ensure a consistent texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if required.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help thin the pesto if needed.
- Return the pasta to the pot and immediately add the avocado pesto. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls. Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta works, opt for whole grain or gluten-free varieties for a healthier twist that complements the creamy pesto beautifully.
- Perfectly Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best flavor and texture. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with the pesto by adding ingredients like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for adjusting the consistency of your pesto, making it silky and smooth.
- Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the pasta immediately after mixing it with the pesto. It’s at its creamiest and most flavorful right out of the pot!
- Garnish Wisely: Elevate your dish with a garnish of fresh basil leaves, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 552kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
