Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta
Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes
I absolutely love making Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta, especially during the warmer months when avocados are at their peak. The creaminess of the avocado combined with a hint of garlic creates a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part is how quick and easy it is to pull together. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings for pasta but also feels light and vibrant, making it perfect for a warm spring day or a quick dinner after a busy day.
When I first experimented with this recipe, I loved the idea of combining creamy avocado with fresh pasta. After several tries, I found that using ripe avocados and a touch of lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the sauce from browning too quickly. The bright flavors are truly captivating!
I often toss in seasonal veggies like peas and cherry tomatoes for an added crunch and vibrancy. The method of blending the avocado with garlic and olive oil creates a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta without any heaviness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado sauce that is both healthy and indulgent
- Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
- Versatile: add your favorite veggies or proteins
Perfecting the Avocado Sauce
The creamy avocado sauce is the star of this dish, offering both richness and nutrition. Use ripe avocados since they're easier to blend and yield a smoother texture. If they're a bit too firm, you can speed up ripening by placing them in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana for a day. The key is to blend the ingredients until completely smooth; this typically takes 30 to 45 seconds in a food processor. A glossy, creamy consistency indicates it's ready to coat the pasta beautifully.
One of the standout features of this sauce is how adaptable it is. While the recipe calls for fresh garlic and lemon juice, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, if you're looking to add a protein punch, consider incorporating some nutritional yeast or even a scoop of Greek yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy while giving it an extra nutritional boost.
Adding Freshness and Color
The addition of cherry tomatoes and green peas not only enhances the visual appeal of your Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta but also adds a refreshing taste and texture. Try to choose vibrant, sweet cherry tomatoes for the best flavor; aim for a mix of colors like red and yellow for even more visual interest. If you opt for frozen peas, simply add them directly to the pasta during the last minute of cooking—this will warm them without losing their bright green color and crispness.
Don't hesitate to customize with seasonal vegetables! Asparagus, zucchini, or spinach would all work wonderfully in this dish. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Sauté the vegetables in olive oil over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes until they're tender but still crisp. This quick method preserves their nutrients and adds a different texture to the final dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you begin for a smooth cooking experience:
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Ensure everything is prepped and ready, so you can enjoy this delicious dish seamlessly!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta:
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Make the Sauce
In a food processor, combine the avocados, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy consistency.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce, cherry tomatoes, and peas. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your vibrant and creamy pasta dish!
Remember to serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also mix in some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Make-Ahead Tips
This Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it in advance, consider storing the sauce separately. Avocado can oxidize and turn brown when exposed to air, so keep the sauce in an airtight container. To keep it looking vibrant, you can layer a thin sheet of plastic wrap directly over the sauce before sealing the container. This can extend its freshness for a day or two in the refrigerator.
When you're ready to serve, just cook the pasta and combine it with the chilled sauce. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it back up. This ensures a creamy and smooth coating when tossed with the pasta, maintaining the intended texture.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind, the longer it's stored, the more the avocado sauce may change in color and texture, but it will still be tasty. When reheating, do so in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help rehydrate the sauce and maintain its creaminess. Stir gently to avoid breaking down the avocado too much.
For freezing, it's advisable to freeze the pasta and sauce separately. Cooked pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months; just cook it until it’s slightly underdone, as it will continue to cook when reheated. Use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. Reheat the pasta straight from the freezer or thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for easier heating.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works perfectly in this recipe and adds a nice nutty flavor.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce may brown slightly, but it will still taste great!
→ Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prep the avocado sauce a few hours ahead, but I'd recommend adding a bit of lemon juice to keep it vibrant.
→ What can I substitute for avocados?
If avocados aren’t available, you can use a store-bought creamy avocado dressing or any other creamy alternative like tahini, but remember it will alter the flavor.
Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta
I absolutely love making Creamy Avocado Spring Pasta, especially during the warmer months when avocados are at their peak. The creaminess of the avocado combined with a hint of garlic creates a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and the best part is how quick and easy it is to pull together. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings for pasta but also feels light and vibrant, making it perfect for a warm spring day or a quick dinner after a busy day.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
In a food processor, combine the avocados, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy consistency.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce, cherry tomatoes, and peas. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your vibrant and creamy pasta dish!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also mix in some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 9g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g