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When it comes to quick, delicious meals, few dishes can compare to Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta. This vibrant dish marries the rich, creamy texture of ripe avocados with the aromatic flavors of fresh basil, creating a unique and satisfying take on traditional pesto. The result is a pasta dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta! This vibrant dish blends creamy avocados with fresh basil, creating a unique twist on traditional pesto. Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s not just quick to prepare, but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of avocados as you whip up this easy, satisfying meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a wholesome dinner at home!
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Ingredients
  

2 ripe avocados

1 cup fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup pine nuts (plus extra for garnish)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (or a vegan alternative)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt and pepper, to taste

12 oz pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne)

Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Just before draining, save about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and return it to the pot, off the heat.

    Prepare the Pesto: While the pasta is cooking, place the ripe avocados, fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper into a food processor or high-speed blender. Blend these ingredients together until they create a smooth, creamy mixture. If the pesto appears too thick, gradually add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creamy consistency.

      Combine Pasta and Pesto: With the pasta still warm in the pot, pour the luscious avocado pesto over it. Toss gently, ensuring that the pasta is thoroughly coated with the pesto sauce. If necessary, splash in additional reserved pasta water, just a little at a time, to help the sauce adhere smoothly to the pasta.

        Serve: Carefully divide the creamy pesto pasta into individual serving bowls. For an appealing presentation, garnish each bowl with halved cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of extra pine nuts, and a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. Consider adding a light pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.

          Enjoy: Serve the dish immediately while it's warm, allowing everyone to savor the delicious, fresh flavors!

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