Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Short Description

Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful fusion of ripe avocados and juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a luscious, dairy-free sauce that envelops your favorite pasta. This dish offers a harmonious blend of creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich: Avocados provide healthy fats and essential nutrients.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and cherry tomatoes adds depth and brightness.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences and pasta types.
• Satisfying: A hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or health benefits.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice
• Ripe avocados
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Cherry tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

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 pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Avocado Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocados, garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce until evenly coated.
4. Add Cherry Tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes and gently fold them into the pasta.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado sauce.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top before serving.
• Herb Infusion: Blend fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the avocado sauce for an herby twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the avocado sauce may darken slightly due to oxidation but remains safe to eat.
• Reheating: Gently reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I prevent the avocado sauce from browning?

To minimize browning, add extra lemon juice to the sauce, and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface before sealing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the avocado sauce in advance and store it separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, the base recipe is vegan. Ensure that any added toppings or variations align with vegan dietary preferences.

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

Long pasta like spaghetti or linguine pairs well, but short pasta like penne or fusilli also holds the sauce nicely.

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?

Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute, offering a slightly different citrus flavor.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add a small amount of jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the blender when making the sauce.

Is it possible to freeze the avocado sauce?

Freezing is not recommended as avocado-based sauces can change texture and color upon thawing.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I know if my avocados are ripe?

Ripe avocados yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a darker skin. Avoid overly soft or mushy avocados.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

Gradually add more reserved pasta water or olive oil while blending until the desired consistency is achieved.

Conclusion

Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that brings together the richness of avocados and the brightness of cherry tomatoes. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful meal to impress guests, this recipe offers a satisfying experience that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Print