Craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further! My Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta combines ripe avocados and fresh lime for a delightful dish packed with flavor. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this creamy pasta that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this awesome recipe.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: This dish combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the zesty brightness of lime, creating a refreshing and delicious sauce.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, this pasta is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals from the avocados and basil.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/4 cup high-quality olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Nutritional Information
This dish is rich and creamy while still being healthy. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:
– Calories: About 350
– Fats: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Protein: 6g
This pasta is not only tasty, but it also packs in good fats from the avocado. Each bite is a mix of fresh flavors. The lime juice adds brightness, while the garlic gives a nice kick. Enjoy this dish for a quick dinner or a fun lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous pinch of sea salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 oz of spaghetti or your choice of pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Al dente means the pasta is firm but not hard. Before you drain the pasta, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water helps to make the sauce creamy later.
Making the Avocado Sauce
While the pasta cooks, prepare the avocado sauce. In a blender, place 2 ripe avocados, 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Add 1/4 cup of high-quality olive oil. Season this with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce to your liking.
Combining Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked, carefully drain it. Return the hot pasta to the pot. Pour the creamy avocado lime sauce over the pasta. Gently toss to combine, ensuring each strand is coated in the sauce. Next, fold in 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix the tomatoes evenly. Finally, taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lime juice for extra flavor. Serve right away, topping with grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sauce
To make your sauce creamy, use ripe avocados. They should feel soft but not mushy. A splash of lime juice adds brightness. It also helps balance the rich taste of the avocado. Season the sauce well with salt and pepper. Adjust to your taste, but remember, you can always add more later.
Serving Suggestions
For garnish, fresh basil adds color and flavor. A drizzle of olive oil makes it shiny and rich. If you like cheese, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top. This adds a salty touch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. Pair your pasta with a light salad or white wine for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
When cooking pasta, use plenty of water and salt. This helps the pasta cook evenly. Check the cooking time on the package for al dente. Use a large pot for best results. For blending, a high-speed blender or food processor works best. It gives the sauce a smooth texture. If you don’t have these, a hand mixer can work too, but it may take longer.
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best creaminess in the sauce. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Adjust the Lime Juice: The lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the avocados from browning. Taste and adjust the amount based on your preference for tartness.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to adjust the consistency of the sauce and allows it to cling better to the pasta.
- Experiment with Herbs: While basil is a great choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile in your avocado sauce.
Variations
Alternative Add-Ins
You can easily change up your creamy avocado lime pasta. Try adding protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Both options add flavor and make the dish heartier. Just cook the protein separately and mix it in before serving. For veggies, consider folding in fresh spinach or bell peppers. They add color and nutrition to the pasta.
Different Pasta Choices
Not all pasta is the same. You can switch to gluten-free pasta if you have dietary needs. Options made from rice or corn work well. Whole wheat or legume-based pasta also offers a healthy twist. These choices bring extra fiber and protein, making your meal more filling.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to amp up the flavor? Add spices like red pepper flakes for a kick. Nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, can add crunch and richness. You might also try a dash of smoked paprika for a unique taste. Experiment with these options to create a dish that’s just right for you.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To store your creamy avocado lime pasta, use an airtight container. Place any leftovers in the fridge right away. This keeps the flavors fresh. If you want to freeze it, remember that the sauce may change in texture. To freeze, store it without the pasta. Instead, freeze the sauce in a separate container. You can then cook fresh pasta when you are ready to eat.
Shelf Life
In the refrigerator, your creamy avocado lime pasta stays fresh for up to three days. Look for signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or discoloration. If the sauce turns brown, that means it has oxidized. It’s best to toss it if that happens.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your pasta, use a pot on low heat. Add a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist. Stir gently to avoid breaking down the creamy sauce. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This way, you keep the creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta in advance?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips for meal prep:
– Prepare the sauce: Make the avocado sauce and store it in the fridge.
– Cook the pasta: You can cook the pasta and keep it in a separate container.
– Combine before serving: Mix the sauce and pasta just before eating. This keeps the sauce fresh and green.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe can be vegan-friendly. Here’s how to check ingredient options:
– Avocados: These are naturally vegan.
– Pasta: Use pasta made from flour and water. Check if it has eggs.
– Parmesan: Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you need a substitute for Parmesan cheese, here are options:
– Nutritional yeast: It adds a cheesy flavor and is vegan.
– Vegan cheese: Many brands offer plant-based cheeses.
– Other cheeses: Feta or pecorino can work if you’re not vegan.
This blog post covered a simple, fresh recipe for Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta. We discussed the key ingredients, including avocados, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. You learned how to cook pasta and blend a creamy sauce. Tips on perfecting the sauce and serving ideas added extra value.
In summary, this dish is quick, healthy, and customizable. You can choose proteins and pasta types to fit your taste. Enjoy making this meal and share it with other
