Creamy Avocado Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

Description

Creamy Avocado Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes is a vibrant, refreshing, and wholesome dish that brings together the buttery richness of ripe avocados, zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs tossed with al dente pasta. Sweet, blistered roasted cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and juiciness, making this a beautifully balanced meal that’s incredibly simple yet impressive. Perfect for a light lunch or quick dinner!

Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes

  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite pasta

  • 2 large ripe avocados, pitted and scooped

  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)

  • 2 cloves garlic

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional)

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Tomatoes:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Toss tomatoes with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

    • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, until soft and slightly blistered.

  2. Cook the Pasta:

    • Bring salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.

  3. Make Avocado Sauce:

    • In a food processor/blender, combine avocado flesh, basil, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to thin.

  4. Assemble:

    • Toss the warm pasta with the avocado sauce until evenly coated.

    • Gently fold in roasted tomatoes.

    • Sprinkle with Parmesan, extra herbs, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Serving Size

  • Serves: 4

  • Serving Size: ~1.5 cups pasta per person

Nutritional Info (per serving – approx.)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 380–420 kcal
Protein 9–12 g
Fat 22–25 g
Carbohydrates 45–50 g
Fiber 7–9 g
Sodium 150–220 mg

Note: Varies based on pasta type and cheese use.

Benefits

  • Heart-Healthy: Avocados provide healthy monounsaturated fats.

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamins A & C.

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Naturally Creamy Without Heavy Cream: Great for lighter meals.

  • Customizable: Easily made vegan or gluten-free.

Notes & Tips

  • Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture.

  • Add spinach, arugula, or grilled chicken/shrimp for extra nutrition.

  • Serve immediately — avocado sauce may brown slightly over time.

  • Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for extra protein and tang.

  • For a spicy kick, add chili flakes to the sauce.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Best enjoyed fresh. If prepping ahead, store sauce separately with lemon juice pressed with cling wrap to limit browning.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Long pasta like linguine or spaghetti coats well, but short varieties like penne also work.

Q: Vegan version?
A: Yes — skip Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the avocado sauce from turning brown?
A: Extra lemon juice and airtight storage help, but oxidation will occur eventually — making it fresh is ideal.

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