Creamy Avocado Pasta

Name: Creamy Avocado Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz pasta of your choice; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Start Meals

I can't get enough of this creamy avocado pasta! The moment I blended ripe avocados with garlic, lemon juice, and a hint of olive oil, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. It's a quick dish that not only satisfies my cravings for comfort food but also keeps things fresh and healthy. Within just 20 minutes, I can whip up a bowl of this vibrant green goodness that feels both indulgent and nutritious. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:37:36.238Z

Creating creamy avocado pasta was a delightful experiment for me! I decided to use only ripe avocados for that silky texture and added lemon juice to balance the flavors. The freshness from the herbs and garlic adds a wonderful aroma to the dish, making it a joy to cook and eat.

One tip I learned through trial and error is to avoid over-blending the avocado. This way, I could retain some of its chunkiness which adds a delightful texture to the pasta. It really elevates the experience, turning a simple dish into something extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Silky smooth texture that delights with every bite
A nutritious twist on traditional pasta dishes
Quick to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner

Perfectly Ripe Avocados

Selecting the right avocados is crucial for this creamy avocado pasta. Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Press gently; if it yields to gentle pressure, it’s ready to use. If they are hard, ripen them at room temperature for a few days. A perfectly ripe avocado will yield a smooth and creamy texture in your sauce, enhancing the overall dish significantly.

If you're in a pinch and your avocados aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana. These fruits emit ethylene gas which helps in ripening the avocados faster. Just remember to check on them daily to avoid overripening.

Cooking the Pasta

When cooking your pasta, be sure to add ample salt to the water; it should taste like the sea. This not only seasons the pasta but also helps enhance the flavors of the avocado sauce. For best results, cook the pasta until it's al dente, which usually takes a minute or two less than the package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss it with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce.

As you reserve the pasta water, keep an eye on the color and texture of the pasta to ensure it's cooked perfectly. It should be firm yet tender, providing the right bite in contrast to the creamy sauce. This extra step can elevate your dish, ensuring the pasta retains its best texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting!

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz pasta of your choice
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy avocado pasta!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In a blender, combine the avocados, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Combine

Toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your creamy avocado pasta warm!

Enjoy your meal and share with friends!

Pro Tips

For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the avocado sauce. This can elevate the dish with an extra kick that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead

This creamy avocado pasta is best enjoyed fresh, as avocados tend to brown quickly. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. To minimize browning, you can squeeze additional lemon juice over the top before sealing the container. Just remember that the texture of the sauce may change after refrigeration, but a quick stir can help bring it back to life.

For meal prep enthusiasts, the avocado sauce can be made in advance. Keep the sauce separate from the pasta until you’re ready to serve. This way, when you toss your pasta with the sauce just before eating, it will offer that silky texture you crave. Just note that you might need a splash of pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency once reheating.

Variations to Try

If you want to take this recipe up a notch, consider adding ingredients such as spinach or arugula to the blender for a pop of color and added nutrients. This not only intensifies the green hue of your sauce but also contributes to its healthy profile, providing you with an extra serving of greens with your meal. You can also throw in a handful of nuts or seeds to give the sauce a unique texture.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. If you're looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or shrimp can make a lovely addition, tossed on top of your creamy pasta for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I replace avocados with something else?

While avocados provide a unique creamy texture, you could experiment with blended silken tofu or cashews as alternatives, though the flavor would differ.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! This creamy avocado pasta is entirely plant-based, making it a great choice for vegans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that avocado may brown slightly, but the taste will still be delicious.

→ What can I serve with this pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.