If you're craving a dish that’s not only delicious but also bursting with fresh flavors, look no further than this Avocado Basil Cream Pasta! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, dreamy pasta that will impress your family and friends. This Italian-inspired recipe combines the rich creaminess of ripe avocados with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a sauce that's both indulgent and healthy. Get ready to elevate your pasta game and discover a new favorite that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the avocado basil cream sauce. Cut the ripe avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a food processor or blender.
- Add fresh basil leaves, peeled garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the avocados in the food processor.
- Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure a uniform consistency. The sauce should be rich and vibrant green.
- Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the hot pot. Immediately pour the avocado basil cream sauce over the pasta.
- Gently toss the pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth coating. The residual heat will help blend the flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with extra fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Avocados: For the best flavor and creaminess, make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta cooking water! This starchy liquid is key to achieving a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor. Dried basil won’t give you the same vibrant taste and aroma.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your pasta in warm bowls and consider garnishing with extra basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of decadence.
- Leftovers Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the sauce may thicken as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of water when reheating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 458kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
