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Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta - A Quick, Fresh, and Comforting Weeknight Meal

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or short pasta like fusilli)
  • 1 large ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 large lemon), plus more to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic (start with 1 if you prefer milder garlic)
  • 1/4–1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan (or vegan Parmesan/nutritional yeast)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (or walnuts/almonds for a budget-friendly swap)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4–1/2 cup reserved pasta water (for thinning the sauce)
  • Optional add-ins: crushed red pepper flakes, baby spinach or arugula, cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water.
  2. Toast the nuts (optional but recommended): In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pine nuts or walnuts for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
  3. Make the avocado pesto: In a blender or food processor, add avocado, basil, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan (or vegan alternative), toasted nuts, salt, and pepper. Pulse to combine. With the motor running, stream in olive oil until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust lemon and salt to taste.
  4. Adjust consistency: Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. It should be silky and spreadable, not runny.
  5. Combine: Return the drained pasta to the pot (off the heat). Add the avocado pesto and a few tablespoons of pasta water. Toss until the sauce coats every strand. Add more pasta water as needed to reach a glossy finish.
  6. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with extra Parmesan, a squeeze of lemon, cracked pepper, and any add-ins like cherry tomatoes or red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.