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Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta

This Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta is a quick and healthy dish that combines the richness of avocados with fresh spinach. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with optional toppings for added flavor.

Ingredients

  • Pasta: 12 ounces (about 340 grams) of your choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or whole wheat)
  • Avocados: 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • Fresh Spinach: 4 cups packed (approximately 120 grams)
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Vegetable Broth: 1/2 cup (or more for desired consistency)
  • Nutritional Yeast: 1/4 cup (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon (to taste)
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh Basil: a handful, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until al dente. Check doneness by tasting; it should have a slight bite but not be hard.
  2. Prepare the sauce: While the pasta cooks, in a blender or food processor, combine the 2 ripe avocados, 4 cups of fresh spinach, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. If the mixture is too thick, add a little vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
  3. Season the sauce: Add 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using) to the blended mixture. Blend again for about 15-20 seconds until fully combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or lemon juice for brightness.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water. Return the pasta to the pot over low heat. Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
  5. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving bowls. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for garnish. Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy texture!

Nutrition

Keywords: To keep the avocado sauce vibrant green, use fresh lemon juice and serve immediately. If you must prepare it in advance, store it tightly covered with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize oxidation.