Simple, creamy Avocado Pasta is a quick and easy pasta recipe inspired by spending time in Mexico City during the holidays.
I first started making this Avocado Pasta when I lived in Mexico City. I can't believe that it's been over 6 years since I lived there. I definitely need to plan a trip back there soon. If you haven't visited Mexico City before, the city is filled with history, amazing food and people.
I was inspired by the traditional Mexican pasta recipes that are served during Christmas.
Pasta is very typical to serve as a side during Christmas in Mexico. Families usually serve a cold pasta salad, pasta fria con coditos during their Christmas Eve dinner.
Keeping with tradition, I love serving my own vegan version of pasta fria con coditos at Christmas time.
Avocado Pasta is one of my ultimate favorite pasta recipes and is perfect any time of year.
This recipe is so simple and easy to make and it is green, which is fun to serve around the holidays.
Not only is this recipe really simple and easy to make, it is also a lighter pasta dish.
This pasta is easy to make and only a few ingredients are needed to create a creamy and satisfying pasta.
The avocado pasta sauce is creamy from the buttery avocado. Aromatics add layers of flavor to the pasta sauce.
For the aromatics, I like to use white onion and garlic. I like to cook the onion and garlic in the olive oil before blending it with the avocado. I find that is helps take away some of the strong onion and raw garlic taste.
Fresh lemon juice and cilantro add a pop of freshness to the pasta.
I like to garnish the pasta with pumpkin seeds and some chopped cilantro. This is completely optional. I just really like to the crunch of the pumpkin seeds with the cream avocado sauce.
how to make avocado pasta kid friendly
My little one loves pasta and this avocado pasta is one of his favorites. Just be sure to leave off the pumpkin seeds before serving your baby or toddler. You definitely don't want them to choke on one of the seeds.
For added protein, I like using a chickpea based pasta when I make this avocado pasta for my toddler. Chickpea pasta is also a great option if you follow a gluten-free diet.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Be sure to leave a comment or tag #thymeandlove on Instagram!
Avocado Pasta
A simple and easy pasta dish that is healthy and delicious. The pasta sauce has a avocado base which creates a creamy and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 8 Ounce Package of Penne Pasta, GF pasta if needed
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
- ¼ of a White Onion, diced
- 1 Garlic Clove, minced
- 1 Medium Avocado
- ¼ Cup Cilantro, roughly chopped
- ½ Lemon Juiced, about 2 Tablespoons
- ½ Tsp Sea Salt
- Pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Chopped Cilantro
- Pumpkin Seeds, optional*
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the package. Before draining the pasta, reserve some of the pasta water and set the water aside. Once the pasta is al dente drain.
- Meanwhile, in a small skillet heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to a food processor.
- Add the avocado, cilantro, lemon juice and salt to the food processor. Puree until smooth.
- After the pasta has been cooked add the avocado sauce. Add a tiny bit of the reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve Immediately and garnish with cilantro and pumpkin seeds if using.
Notes
To make this kid-friendly, leave off the pumpkin seeds before serving your baby or toddler. You definitely don’t want them to choke on one of the seeds.
For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. I love chickpea pasta for added protein.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260Total Fat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 299mgCarbohydrates: 30gFiber: 9gSugar: 1gProtein: 6g
The nutrition information is just an estimate for the recipe.
Happy Cooking!
Jeni
Avocado pasta sounds so great. I had no idea that this was a thing!
I am in awe of how delicious and simple this was.
I literally happened to have everything on hand after making an overabundance of spaghetti and couldn't have asked for a better traditional sauce alternative.
Soo good!