Name: Creamy Avocado Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice; 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted; 2 cloves garlic; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (as needed); Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for garnish)

I make this creamy avocado pasta whenever I crave something rich yet fresh at the same time. The ripe avocados create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, while garlic, basil, and lemon add brightness and balance. It is a quick, wholesome meal that feels comforting without being heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, velvety sauce without using heavy cream. The avocados provide natural creaminess, while fresh basil and lemon juice keep the flavor vibrant and light. I also appreciate how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It is versatile, easy to customize, and works beautifully as both a vegetarian main dish and a vegan option with a simple swap.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice

2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted

2 cloves garlic

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

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

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt to taste

Black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons reserved pasta water (as needed)

Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional for garnish)

Directions

I start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

While the pasta cooks, I add the avocados, garlic, basil, lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. I blend everything until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure a silky texture.

Once the pasta is cooked, I reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining it. I immediately toss the hot pasta with the avocado sauce in a large bowl. If the sauce feels too thick, I add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to loosen it and help it coat the pasta evenly.

I taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed. I serve it right away, garnished with cherry tomatoes, extra basil, and additional Parmesan if I feel like adding a finishing touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 420 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes make this pasta completely vegan by replacing the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. When I want extra protein, I like adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top. For more vegetables, I mix in spinach, roasted zucchini, or peas. If I enjoy a stronger kick, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili powder. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well in this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

I prefer to enjoy this pasta fresh because avocado can darken over time. If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To help prevent browning, I press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing.

When reheating, I gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. I avoid high heat because it can affect the creamy texture and fresh flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

I can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance, but I keep it tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface to minimize browning. I prefer making it fresh for the best color and flavor.

How do I keep the avocado sauce from turning brown?

I rely on lemon juice to slow oxidation, and I also make sure to cover the sauce tightly. Mixing it with hot pasta just before serving also helps maintain its vibrant green color.

Can I freeze creamy avocado pasta?

I do not recommend freezing it because the texture of avocado changes after thawing, which can make the sauce watery and less creamy.

What pasta shapes work best?

I like using spaghetti, but I also find that fettuccine, linguine, or even short pasta like penne hold the sauce well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

I can easily make it gluten-free by using my favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself does not contain gluten ingredients.

Conclusion

I find this creamy avocado pasta to be the perfect balance of indulgent and fresh. It is simple, satisfying, and packed with vibrant flavors from basil, garlic, and lemon. Whenever I want a comforting meal that still feels wholesome, this recipe is one I confidently return to again and again.

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