Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe | Easy Dinner Ideas

Recipe By:
Ava Mack
Updated:

There’s something about creamy avocado pasta salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: tender pasta tossed with luscious, ripe avocados, zesty lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, creating a symphony of flavors that dance in your mouth. This is not just any salad; it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to grab a fork and twirl it around like you’re at an Italian bistro, even if you’re just in your cozy kitchen. For more inspiration, check out this strawberry spinach salad recipe.

Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe

Now, if you’re anything like me, you probably have those days when dinner feels like a daunting task. That’s where this creamy avocado pasta salad recipe swoops in like a culinary superhero. It’s quick, easy, and packed with deliciousness that will have your family begging for seconds. Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells Trust me, the first time I made this for my friends, they were practically fighting over the last bite—and I didn’t mind one bit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy avocado pasta salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • Its flavor profile is rich and refreshing, thanks to the avocados and herbs
  • The vibrant green color looks stunning on any table setting
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish or main course!

When I first made this dish for a summer barbecue, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how light yet satisfying it was. They were amazed at how quickly I whipped it up!

Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pasta: Choose your favorite type; I love using fusilli for its ability to hold onto all that creamy goodness.
  • Ripe Avocados: Pick avocados that yield slightly to pressure for perfect creaminess.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: This brightens up flavors; use freshly squeezed for the best taste.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for sweetness and color; they add a delightful burst in every bite.
  • Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves for an aromatic finish; they elevate the entire dish.
  • Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; opt for extra virgin for enhanced flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: A pinch brings depth without overwhelming freshness; it’s my secret weapon. Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance flavors; don’t skip these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do the trick.

Prepare the Avocado Dressing: While the pasta cooks, mash ripe avocados in a bowl. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir until smooth and creamy. The citrus will keep them from browning too quickly.

Add Flavorful Ingredients: Toss halved cherry tomatoes into the avocado dressing along with minced garlic powder and chopped fresh basil. Stir gently to combine everything while dreaming about how good this will taste. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.

Combine Pasta and Dressing: Drain the pasta once cooked but don’t rinse it—this helps the dressing stick better! In a large mixing bowl, combine warm pasta with the avocado mixture. Mix well until every noodle is coated beautifully.

Season and Serve!: Taste your creation! Adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Drizzle olive oil over everything before serving for an extra touch of richness.

This creamy avocado pasta salad recipe is not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen! So gather your ingredients and get ready to create something magical that will impress everyone at your dinner table—or at least keep them coming back for more! Enjoy every creamy forkful as you savor not just deliciousness but also memories created around shared meals! Crispy Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower.

You Must Know

  • This creamy avocado pasta salad recipe is not just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights
  • The bright flavors and heavenly textures will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell divine
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then blend the avocado dressing while it cools. Combine them for a creamy delight.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, olives, or grilled chicken for extra flavor. Experiment with herbs like basil or cilantro to personalize this dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best quality, enjoy cold without reheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the perfect creamy texture, use ripe avocados and blend until smooth
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed—don’t be shy!
  • Adding lemon juice not only enhances flavor but also prevents browning

Sharing this creamy avocado pasta salad at my last family gathering led to enthusiastic compliments and requests for seconds. Who knew avocados could spark such joy?

FAQ

Can I make this creamy avocado pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance for convenience.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Comforting Shepherd’s Pie.

Any short pasta like rotini or fusilli holds onto the sauce beautifully.

Can I substitute avocado with something else?

For a different flavor profile, try using hummus or Greek yogurt instead of avocado.

Print
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Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad


  • Author: Ava Mack
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tender pasta, ripe avocados, and zesty lemon juice, topped with fresh herbs. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or summer gatherings, offering a refreshing taste and vibrant presentation that will impress family and friends alike. Serve it as a satisfying main course or a colorful side dish that everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz fusilli pasta
  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mash avocados and mix with lemon juice until smooth.
  3. Stir in cherry tomatoes, garlic powder, and chopped basil.
  4. Combine the warm pasta with the avocado mixture until well-coated.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing in olives or grilled chicken. - Substitute cilantro for basil for a different herb profile. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; enjoy cold.

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