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- Fresh ingredients for the sauce - 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves These fresh ingredients bring vibrant flavors to the dish. The avocados create a creamy texture. The garlic adds a nice kick. Lemon juice gives it brightness, and basil adds a fresh aroma. - Pasta options to choose from - 12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine) You can choose any pasta you love. Spaghetti and linguine work best because they hold the sauce nicely. You can also use gluten-free pasta if needed. - Optional garnishes and add-ons - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving) - Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish) Garnishes can make your dish pop. Add halved cherry tomatoes for color and sweetness. Parmesan cheese gives a salty, rich flavor. You can skip it for a vegan version. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To cook pasta al dente, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and stir it occasionally. Follow the package directions for cooking time. Al dente means the pasta is firm but not hard. This gives the best texture for your dish. Always reserve some pasta water before you drain it. This starchy water helps to thin sauces later. It’s a secret trick for making your sauce creamy and smooth. To make the avocado sauce, start with ripe avocados. Cut them in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh. Place the avocado in a blender or food processor. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. For a touch of freshness, add basil leaves to the blender. Pulse it a few times. This keeps some texture while adding flavor. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water. Mix until you reach your desired consistency. Once the pasta is cooked and drained, return it to the pot. Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta. Use a pair of tongs to toss everything together. This ensures each piece of pasta is coated evenly. For serving, you can add halved cherry tomatoes and some fresh basil on top. This adds color and flavor. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. Enjoy your creamy avocado pasta! Check the Full Recipe for more details. To keep your avocados from browning, use lemon juice. The acid in lemon juice slows down oxidation. Simply squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the cut avocado. This method works wonders! You can also mix lemon juice directly into your avocado sauce to enhance the flavor. Add nuts or seeds to your pasta for a nice crunch. Pine nuts, walnuts, or sunflower seeds are great choices. They add both texture and a nutty flavor. You can also use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a twist. This gives your creamy avocado pasta new tastes and makes it exciting! For the full recipe, check out the main section. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to your creamy avocado pasta. Chicken or shrimp works great. - Adding chicken or shrimp: Cook diced chicken or shrimp in a pan. Season them with salt and pepper. Once cooked, mix them into your pasta. This adds flavor and makes the dish heartier. - Vegetarian protein alternatives: If you prefer a veggie option, try chickpeas or lentils. They are packed with protein and fill you up. Just toss them in with the pasta for a tasty boost. Adding veggies can make your pasta even better. Seasonal vegetables bring freshness and color. - Incorporating seasonal vegetables: Think about using spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them lightly before adding to your pasta. This will add texture and flavor. - Making it a full meal with greens: To make your dish more nutritious, add greens like kale or arugula. Toss them in right before serving. This will add a nice crunch and brighten the meal. For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy your cooking! To keep your creamy avocado pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. Use the pasta within three days for the best taste. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from drying out. Stir gently until warmed through. You can freeze the avocado sauce, but the pasta does not freeze well. To freeze the sauce, place it in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. This prevents freezer burn and keeps it fresh longer. When ready to use, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge. You can also thaw it in a bowl of warm water. After thawing, blend it again to restore creaminess. Serve it over freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal. Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Make the avocado sauce and cook the pasta. Store them separately in airtight containers. Keep the sauce in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready to serve, combine them. If the sauce thickens, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This meal prep option saves time on busy nights. Many tasty dairy-free options exist for Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also try cashew cheese or a sprinkle of hemp seeds. These choices are great for vegan diets. They add a nice texture and flavor to your dish. Experiment to find what you enjoy most! Yes, Creamy Avocado Pasta can be gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or chickpeas. These options cook well and taste great. Always check the package for gluten-free labels. This way, you can enjoy a creamy pasta dish without the gluten! You now have everything you need to make creamy avocado pasta. Start with fresh ingredients for the sauce and select your favorite pasta. Follow the steps to cook it perfectly and blend the sauce just right. Don’t forget your tips for enhancing flavor and texture. Experiment with variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. This dish is easy to store and reheat, making it a great option for meals ahead. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor the creamy goodness!

- Creamy Avocado Pasta

Indulge in a delightful and healthy meal with this creamy avocado pasta recipe! With ripe avocados, fresh basil, and a hint of garlic, this dish is not only simple to make but bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it can be ready in just 20 minutes! Click through to explore the full recipe and learn how to create this creamy, satisfying dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)

2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

    While the pasta cooks, prepare the avocado sauce. In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocados, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.

      Add the fresh basil leaves to the avocado mixture and pulse a few times until just incorporated; this will add a lovely herby flavor to the sauce.

        Season the avocado sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until a creamy consistency is achieved.

          Once the pasta is drained, return it to the pot and pour the creamy avocado sauce over the top. Toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

            Serve immediately, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes, additional basil leaves, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

              Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 20 min | Servings: 4