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Creamy Avocado Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy avocado pasta recipe offers a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ripe avocados, fresh garlic, baby spinach, and a hint of lemon juice, the avocado sauce is blended to a smooth texture and tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. The dish can be made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot and is garnished with red chili flakes and optional parmesan cheese for an extra kick. It’s a delicious vegetarian option that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta (semolina or any preferred type, about 2-2.5 cups)
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt, to taste

Avocado Sauce

  • 1 large ripe avocado
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 cup baby spinach (or basil, optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup water (or as needed for consistency)

To Garnish

  • Crushed black pepper, to taste
  • Red chili flakes
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: If using stovetop method, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and the penne pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente or preferred tenderness. Drain excess water and set aside. If using an Instant Pot, add dry pasta, water, and salt to the pot, ensuring pasta is mostly covered with water. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes for al dente pasta (5 minutes for softer). After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes then quick-release the remaining pressure. Drain any excess water.
  2. Prepare Avocado Sauce: In a food processor, combine the ripe avocado, lemon juice, olive oil (if using), garlic cloves, baby spinach, salt, and crushed black pepper. Blend until smooth, starting with 1/4 cup of water, adding more as needed to reach a creamy consistency. Optionally, parmesan cheese can be added to the sauce for extra flavor.
  3. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the prepared avocado sauce to the drained pasta (in the Instant Pot insert or a mixing bowl) and toss thoroughly until every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  4. Serve: Immediately sprinkle red chili flakes and additional parmesan cheese on top if desired. Serve the avocado pesto pasta fresh within 2-3 hours to enjoy its vibrant color and taste before the avocado darkens.

Notes

  • Avocado sauce tends to brown quickly; best to consume the dish within 2-3 hours for optimal color and freshness.
  • Spinach can be substituted with fresh basil for a different flavor profile.
  • Adjust water in the sauce to reach preferred creaminess and texture.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional and can be omitted to keep the dish vegan.
  • Red chili flakes add heat; adjust quantity based on personal spice tolerance.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (stovetop) or 4-5 minutes (Instant Pot)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/creamy-avocado-pasta-recipe/