25-Minute Creamy Avocado Pasta
A quick, creamy avocado pasta with garlic, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese. This fiber-rich, plant-based meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Healthy fats from avocado give it a silky texture, while a touch of lemon keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for cooking pasta)
- 1 Colander (for draining pasta)
- 1 food processor or blender (for avocado sauce)
- 1 mixing spoon or tongs (for tossing pasta)
- 1 Measuring Cup
- 1 Measuring Spoon
Ingredients
- 12 ounces long pasta spaghetti, angel hair, or preferred type
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 ripe avocados
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese divided
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
- Chili flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta—spaghetti, angel hair, or any long pasta you prefer—and cook according to the package directions until al dente, meaning it should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Avoid overcooking to prevent a mushy texture. Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Do not rinse the pasta; the natural starch helps the sauce adhere perfectly.
- Prep the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, peel and finely mince two fresh garlic cloves. Minced garlic ensures even distribution of flavor throughout the sauce. Set aside in a small bowl until ready to use.
- Pit and Scoop the Avocados: Choose two ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and scoop the creamy flesh into your food processor or blender. Ripe avocados are essential for a silky, smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Add two tablespoons of fresh basil leaves and two tablespoons of chopped parsley to the avocados. These herbs provide a fragrant, bright flavor that balances the richness of the avocado. Fresh herbs also add a vibrant green color, making your pasta visually appealing.
- Incorporate Cream and Olive Oil: Pour in two tablespoons of heavy cream and one tablespoon of olive oil. The cream adds luxurious smoothness, while olive oil enhances the flavor and creates a glossy, silky texture for the sauce. Avoid substituting milk, as it will not achieve the same creamy consistency.
- Season and Flavor: Add two teaspoons of fresh lemon juice and ½ teaspoon of salt to the mixture. Lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also prevents the avocado from oxidizing and turning brown. Salt is crucial to enhance the overall taste.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Add two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the food processor. The cheese provides a subtle savory depth and creamy texture. Reserve one tablespoon for garnish at the end.
- Blend into a Smooth Sauce: Pulse the food processor in short bursts until the mixture transforms into a perfectly smooth, creamy sauce. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even blending. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the pasta but still pourable; you can thin it slightly with the reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Immediately transfer the hot pasta into a large mixing bowl or leave it in the pot. Pour the avocado sauce over the pasta and gently toss with tongs or a spoon until each strand is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
- Plate and Garnish: Divide the creamy avocado pasta among serving plates. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with extra fresh herbs like basil or parsley, and a pinch of chili flakes if you like a mild kick. This finishing touch adds color, flavor, and visual appeal to your dish.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your creamy avocado pasta while it’s still warm to enjoy the sauce at its silky best. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente: This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy avocado sauce. A slight firmness adds a pleasant texture.
- Extra fresh herbs: Add more basil or parsley to the sauce if you love a bright, herbaceous flavor. Reserve some for garnish to enhance the dish visually.
- Lemon juice magic: Fresh lemon juice keeps the avocado from browning and adds a tangy brightness that balances the richness.
- Use pasta water wisely: The starchy water helps thin the sauce while helping it cling beautifully to the pasta. Add gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Topping ideas: Freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chili flakes provide extra flavor and visual appeal, but optional toppings like toasted pine nuts or microgreens work beautifully too.
