Healthy Avocado Pesto Pasta

Avocado pesto pasta is a popular dish that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the freshness of traditional basil pesto sauce. This recipe not only satisfies your craving for something light yet satisfying but also provides essential nutrients and vitamins. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, and it serves four people.

To begin, you will need:

• 2 cups of cooked pasta
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (roasted or raw)
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Extra virgin olive oil

Start by cooking your pasta according to the instructions on the package. While it’s cooking, prepare the rest of the ingredients.

In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, pine nuts, garlic, shallot, and lemon zest. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency. As you blend, gradually add olive oil while checking for seasoning. The pesto should be neither too thick nor too thin; it should have the right balance of flavors.

When your pasta is almost done (al dente), reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. This will help you achieve a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles perfectly.

Mix the pesto with the cooked pasta and add some reserved pasta water if needed for consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper, ensuring that it aligns well with your personal preference.

For an extra touch of flavor, you can garnish this dish with additional fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional). Serve immediately and enjoy the richness of flavors from each bite!

Nutritional Benefits

This avocado pesto pasta is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamins E and C, fiber, and potassium, which help maintain heart health. Pine nuts add a good amount of protein along with their own set of nutrients.

• Rich in monounsaturated fats that reduce bad cholesterol levels
• High content of fiber aiding digestion and providing satiety
• Vitamin E which is essential for skin health
• Antioxidants found in avocado helping fight inflammation

Cooking Tips

For a creamier texture, you may want to add more olive oil or use full-fat versions of ingredients. However, keep an eye on the calorie intake as this can increase the fat content.

1. Ensure that your avocados are ripe but not overripe when preparing them; they should be slightly soft to the touch.
2. The pesto must blend well for a smooth sauce. If it’s too chunky, continue blending until you achieve the desired consistency.
3. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider reducing the amount of garlic used or using shallots instead.

Variations and Alternatives

Feel free to experiment with this base recipe. You can add more vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or red bell peppers for added color and texture.

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
• Incorporate roasted garlic cloves for deeper flavor
• Use other herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of basil for a change in taste

This healthy avocado pesto pasta is not only satisfying but also versatile, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you're looking for a quick weekday dinner or a special-occasion dish, this recipe will never disappoint. Enjoy cooking and eating!