Description
This Avocado Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, refreshing, and nutritious ingredients. Ripe avocados create a silky, naturally creamy dressing, while fresh cherry tomatoes, red onions, and basil add bursts of flavor and crunch. Tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, this dish is light yet satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a summer picnic dish, or a light dinner, this recipe is packed with nutrients and can be customized to suit different diets.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large avocados – ripe but firm
- 2 cups pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie) – whole wheat or gluten-free options
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes – halved
- ½ cup red onion – thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil – chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – prevents browning, adds tang
- 2 tbsp olive oil – extra virgin for the best flavor
- 1 clove garlic – minced
- Salt & pepper to taste – enhances flavor
Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty flavor
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes – for a spicy kick
- ½ cup cucumber slices – for extra crunch
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts – for added texture
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Avocado Dressing
- Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a blender.
- Add lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add 1 tbsp of water at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and fresh basil.
- Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld
- Allow the salad to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 7g