Creamy Avocado Herb Pasta: A Quick, Healthy Dinner Recipe

Try this quick and healthy Creamy Avocado Herb Pasta—ready in just 15 minutes! Made with fresh avocado, basil, and garlic, it’s a delicious, nutrient-packed meal

A sauce that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that’s ready in just 15 minutes? This Creamy Avocado Herb Pasta is the answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of avocados with fresh herbs for a sauce that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a lighter meal, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Avocado Pasta

This recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
Versatile: Customize it with your favorite add-ins or dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults, making it great for family dinners or entertaining.

Health Benefits of Avocado Sauce

Avocados are the star of this dish, and for good reason. They’re loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, which are great for your heart, and they’re also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Each serving of this creamy avocado pasta provides:

458 calories
14g of protein
19g of healthy fats
7g of dietary fiber

It’s a meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

Here’s the information in a clear, easy-to-read list format:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Servings Yield: 4–6 servings

Ingredients for the Perfect Avocado Pasta Sauce

The secret to this creamy, dreamy sauce lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 large ripe avocado (creamy and smooth)
Fresh basil leaves (for a vibrant, herby flavor)
2 garlic cloves (for depth and aroma)
Juice of 1 lemon (for a bright, tangy kick)
½ cup reserved pasta water (to create a silky sauce)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Pro Tip: Always save about 1 cup of pasta water before draining your noodles. The starchy liquid is the key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Making this creamy avocado pasta is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Choose Your Pasta:
- Select your favorite pasta type (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne). About 8–12 ounces of dry pasta will serve 4–6 people.
Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente (firm to the bite). This usually takes 8–12 minutes.
Reserve Pasta Water:
- Before draining the pasta, carefully scoop out 1 cup of the starchy pasta water using a measuring cup or ladle. Set this aside—it’s essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
Drain the Pasta:
- Drain the pasta in a colander, but do not rinse it. Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Sauce

Gather Your Ingredients:
- 1 large ripe avocado (peeled and pitted)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 2 garlic cloves (peeled)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (adjust as needed)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Blend the Sauce:
- Add the avocado, basil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a food processor or blender.
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Adjust the Consistency:
- Gradually add the reserved pasta water, starting with ¼ cup, and blend until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Add more pasta water if needed, but avoid making the sauce too runny.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Toss the Pasta:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta and the avocado sauce.
- Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the pasta until it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
Adjust the Sauce:
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water and toss again. Repeat until the sauce clings to the pasta perfectly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the Pasta:
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls or plates.
Add Toppings (Optional):
- Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or chopped herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
Serve Immediately:
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado sauce can darken over time. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe (slightly soft to the touch) for the creamiest sauce.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the avocado and lemon juice come to room temperature before blending for a smoother texture.
Customize the Sauce: Add a handful of spinach or arugula to the blender for extra nutrients and a vibrant green color.
Double the Recipe: This dish is great for meal prep—double the ingredients and store the sauce separately for quick meals later in the week.

Delicious Add-Ins and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas to customize your avocado pasta:

Protein Boosters:

Grilled chicken
Sautéed shrimp
Crispy baked tofu
Chickpeas

Veggie Add-Ins:

Roasted cherry tomatoes
Sautéed mushrooms
Steamed broccoli
Wilted spinach or kale

Flavor Enhancers:

Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Toasted pine nuts or almonds (for crunch)
Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill)
Nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, vegan-friendly flavor)

Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, here’s how to store leftovers:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. Note that the avocado may darken slightly, but it’s still safe to eat.
Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Avoid Freezing: Due to the avocado’s delicate texture, freezing is not recommended.

For meal prep, you can blend the avocado sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Just toss it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

Turn this creamy avocado pasta into a complete meal with these serving ideas:

Side Salad: Pair with a fresh mixed green salad and a light vinaigrette.
Roasted Veggies: Add roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the herbaceous flavors of the sauce.
Non-Alcoholic Option: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is refreshing and light.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Avocado Herb Pasta is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. With its rich, velvety sauce and fresh, vibrant flavors, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try tonight. Don’t forget to save this post for later and share it with your friends—it’s a keeper!