Creamy Avocado Spinach Pesto Pasta

In the world of culinary delights, pasta often occupies a cherished spot. Its versatility allows for endless creativity, making it a beloved staple in kitchens around the globe. While traditional pasta dishes are comforting in their own right, few recipes offer the wholesome richness and vibrant flavors like creamy avocado spinach pesto pasta. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious powerhouse, combining the creaminess of ripe avocado with the fresh, aromatic notes of spinach and basil.

Discover the delectable magic of creamy avocado spinach pesto pasta! This nutritious dish combines the richness of ripe avocados with fresh spinach and vibrant herbs, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and a delightful nutty flavor, while the creamy pesto provides a luscious texture without heavy cream. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend feasts, this recipe is designed to please both your palate and your health. Enjoy a burst of flavors and embrace healthy cooking with every bite!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) whole wheat pasta (spaghetti or your choice)

1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled

2 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Make the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the avocado, spinach, basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. While the processor is running, gradually pour in the olive oil until the mixture is creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired texture is reached.

Season the Pesto: Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes.

Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained pasta with the creamy avocado spinach pesto until well coated. If the mixture is too thick, gradually mix in more reserved pasta water.

Serve: Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added flavor and serve immediately.

Enjoy! Pair this delightful pasta dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings