Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipes Vegetarian Lovers Will Adore

Avocado pesto pasta is the perfect marriage of creamy, fresh, and vibrant flavors that will transform your weekday dinner into something extraordinary. This vegetarian recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a wholesome and satisfying meal.

The luscious avocado replaces traditional heavy cream or cheese, lending a silky texture and subtle richness to the pesto sauce. Paired with your favorite pasta, this dish is quick to prepare, healthy, and bursting with bright, herby goodness.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, avocado pesto pasta is a delightful recipe to keep in your culinary repertoire.

In this blog post, you’ll discover why this recipe stands out, the essential ingredients and equipment, detailed step-by-step instructions, plus tips and variations to customize it your way. From nutrition facts to serving ideas, this avocado pesto pasta recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Avocado pesto pasta brings a fresh twist to the classic Italian sauce by swapping out pine nuts and heavy cheese for creamy avocado and walnuts, making it lighter but still indulgent. This recipe is:

• Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free if you choose gluten-free pasta
• Rich in healthy fats thanks to the avocado and olive oil
• Quick and easy to whip up in under 20 minutes
• Versatile—you can customize it with extra veggies or different herbs
• Perfectly creamy without any dairy

It’s a wholesome meal that satisfies your cravings for something creamy and comforting but keeps things light and nutritious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add more greens to your dinner plate, making it a hit with both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work great)
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/3 cup walnuts (can substitute pine nuts or almonds)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit or substitute for nutritional yeast to keep vegan)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed peas for added veggies

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the avocado pesto: While the pasta cooks, add the avocados, fresh basil, walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to a food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides once or twice.
3. Add cheese and season: Transfer the pesto to a bowl and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Combine pasta and pesto: Toss the warm pasta with the avocado pesto. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to loosen it to your desired consistency.
5. Add optional veggies: Fold in cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed peas if desired for extra flavor and texture.
6. Serve immediately: Garnish with extra basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your vibrant, creamy avocado pesto pasta!

Tips & Variations

“Use ripe avocados for the creamiest pesto and freshest taste.”

• Make it vegan: Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or simply omit it. The avocado provides plenty of creaminess.
• Add greens: Blend in a handful of spinach or arugula for an extra nutrient boost and deeper green color.
• Nut substitutions: If you’re allergic or prefer a different nut, try cashews or pecans for a unique flavor twist.
• Storage: Leftover pesto can be stored in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a mild kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Avocado pesto pasta shines on its own but can also be complemented by a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh green salad: A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta.
• Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread like a Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe to soak up the luscious pesto sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Oven-roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus add a smoky depth.
• Protein boost: Add grilled tofu, roasted chickpeas, or a poached egg for extra protein.
• Cheese lovers: Top with shaved Parmesan or crumbled feta for an indulgent finish.

More Vegetarian Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy avocado pesto pasta, be sure to check out these other delicious vegetarian dishes from the blog:

• Kosher Vegetarian Recipes – A collection of flavorful plant-based meals.
• Half Runner Beans Recipe – A fresh and healthy side or main dish with vibrant beans.
• Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe – Moist, naturally sweet muffins perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Conclusion

Avocado pesto pasta is a fantastic vegetarian recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with a creamy, delicious taste that everyone will enjoy. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and endlessly adaptable to your preferences.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests, enjoy a healthy weeknight dinner, or simply explore new flavors, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

By using ripe avocados and fresh basil, you create a sauce that’s fresh, silky, and bursting with flavor—without relying on heavy cream or excessive cheese. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak more healthy fats and greens into your diet.

Don’t forget to try some variations and visit the linked recipes for more inspiration and culinary delights. Happy cooking!

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