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Creamy Avocado Basil Pasta

This Creamy Avocado Basil Pasta is SO EASY! A luscious, dairy-free sauce tossed with your favorite pasta for a rich, flavorful meal.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta of choice
  • 1 ripe avocado pitted and peeled
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 lemon lemon juiced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • cherry tomatoes halved, for garnish
  • pine nuts toasted, for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of your pasta of choice and cook until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes depending on the pasta shape. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
  • In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water and blend again to reach a silky consistency.
  • While the pasta is cooking, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Return the drained pasta to the pot or place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the avocado basil sauce over the pasta and toss thoroughly to coat every strand or piece. If the sauce feels too thick, add additional reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired creaminess.
  • Divide the pasta among plates or bowls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if using, halved cherry tomatoes, and toasted pine nuts. Add a final crack of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Food processor or blender
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Toaster pan or skillet
  • Citrus juicer

Notes

  • Use ripe avocados for the creamiest sauce and best flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container with extra lemon juice to prevent browning; best eaten within 1 day.
  • Try adding seasonal vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli for variety.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or substitute with nutritional yeast.