This Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta is a creamy, zesty, and nutrient-packed dish that brings comfort to the table in the best way possible.
The avocado gives the pesto a rich, velvety texture while keeping it light and fresh. Tossed with pasta, it’s the ultimate vegan pasta dish for any occasion.
I love to make this when I need a quick meal, and it pairs perfectly with a refreshing glass of Iced Tea or a savory side of Stuffed Mushrooms.
The creamy avocado pesto is a delightful twist on the traditional basil pesto, and the flavors are so vibrant and satisfying. Plus, it’s a hit for everyone at the table—whether vegan or not!
The best part? This dish comes together in just minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal without the hassle of hours in the kitchen.
The creamy pesto coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite bursting with flavor. Ready to dig in? Let’s make this plant-based pasta dish that will leave you craving more!
Why You Will Be Hooked?
- Creamy & Dreamy: The avocado gives the pesto an extra creamy texture, making it irresistible.
- Fresh & Flavorful: Fresh avocado and basil create a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to please.
- Quick and Easy: A meal that’s ready in minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Vegan-Friendly: No dairy, just all plant-based goodness.
Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- High-powered blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 8 ounces dry pasta of choice
- 1 large ripe avocado skin and seed removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 and ½ cups basil loosely packed
- 1 cup frozen spinach thawed; or use 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic roughly chopped
- ¼ cup raw unsalted cashews
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice from ½ large lemon
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- cherry tomatoes for serving
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, olive oil, basil, spinach, garlic, cashews, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend Smoothly: Process until smooth and spreadable, scraping down sides as needed. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Pasta and Pesto: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until well-coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, add cherry tomatoes, and serve warm or chilled.
Nutritional Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 416kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fibre | 7g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Sugar | 3g |
10 Expert-Level Variations for Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta!
- Zesty Citrus Kick: Replace the lemon juice with lime juice or add lemon zest for a sharper, more pronounced citrus flavor that complements the creamy avocado.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap cashews with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that maintains the pesto’s creaminess.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled tofu, chickpeas, or pan-seared mushrooms to turn this into a protein-packed main dish.
- Herbal Upgrade: Mix fresh parsley or cilantro with the basil for a unique herbaceous twist that adds a layered flavor profile.
- Cheesy Flavor: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan into the pesto for a cheesy, umami kick.
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the pesto for a subtle heat that balances the creamy and nutty flavors.
- Roasted Garlic Pesto: Swap raw garlic for roasted garlic to create a sweeter, mellower pesto that complements the richness of the avocado.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed zucchini, or steamed asparagus for added texture and vibrant flavors.
- Lighter Version: Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
- Pesto Spread: Double the pesto recipe and use it as a sandwich spread, pizza topping, or dip for crackers and veggies.
These creative variations elevate the dish with diverse textures, flavors, and applications, offering a range of ways to enjoy this creamy avocado spinach pesto pasta.
