Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta

When I first stumbled on this creamy avocado and spinach pasta, it was like discovering a whole new world of flavors that felt both fresh and comforting at the same time. The velvety texture combined with bright lemon notes instantly won me over.

I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up, and I pulled this together without breaking a sweat. Watching them take seconds made that night unforgettable.

Ingredients

• Pasta: Penne or spaghetti works great and reaches perfect al dente every time when salted right.
• Avocados: Ripe and creamy are the keys here; too hard or overripe makes a big difference in taste.
• Spinach: Baby spinach adds freshness without overpowering the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: A couple cloves give a gentle kick without taking center stage.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds that fruity richness that complements avocado perfectly.
• Parmesan cheese: Sharp and salty, it lifts the entire dish, but you can swap in nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
• Lemon juice: Just the right touch brightens everything up.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that tie it all together.
• Reserved pasta water: Your secret weapon for a silky smooth sauce consistency.
• Garnishes: Fresh basil and red pepper flakes optional but highly recommended for an extra pop.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil while gathering all your ingredients at arm's reach, so the rhythm flows smoothly.

Cook the Pasta:

Add pasta and stir occasionally, cooking according to the package until al dente. Before draining, reserve 60 ml of that starchy cooking water—it’s liquid gold for your sauce.

Blend the Sauce:

In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, spinach, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until creamy, adding reserved pasta water spoon by spoon until the texture becomes silky and inviting.

Bring It All Together:

Return the drained pasta to the pot, pour in the sauce, and toss gently. The warmth of the pasta helps the sauce cling beautifully. Adjust creaminess by adding more pasta water if needed.

Serve:

Dish it out immediately, adorned with fresh basil, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.

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This dish became my go-to comfort meal on a particularly chilly evening when I needed both nourishment and a hug in a bowl—it brought everyone around the table even closer.

Where This Dish Comes From

Though inspired by Italian flavors, this pasta has roots in modern healthy cooking trends, blending creamy textures with fresh greens for a guilt-free pleasure.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I love pairing this pasta with a crisp side salad or some garlicky roasted veggies. It’s also wonderful topped with grilled chicken or mushrooms for an extra boost of protein.

Keeping It Fresh

If you’re making this ahead, keep the sauce and pasta separate until ready to eat, as the avocado sauce loses its vibrant color and texture once mixed and stored.

• Last minute thought you'd call out as a friend leaves your kitchen: Don’t forget to save a little Parmesan for sprinkling at the table
• Another 'oh wait one more thing' moment: A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the whole dish
• Final helpful note: Use the reserved pasta water carefully, adding only enough to loosen the sauce without making it runny

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Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—here’s to many more delicious moments shared over simple, fresh food.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use a different pasta type?

Yes, penne, spaghetti, or any pasta shape that holds sauce well works perfectly with this dish.

→ How do I keep the avocado sauce from browning?

Serve immediately for best color and freshness; lemon juice in the sauce also helps slow browning.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a plant-based version without compromising flavor.

→ What can I add for extra texture?

Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a pleasant crunch and complement the creamy sauce well.

→ Can proteins be added to enrich the meal?

Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms are great options to increase protein content and add depth.