My Favorite Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

My Favorite Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

Vegan avocado pesto pasta is one of the few vegan pasta recipes that punch above their weight class in both taste, texture, nutritional benefits and even appearance. It just feels fancy even though it is a very easy and simple vegan pasta. With not too much ingredients, you can make a really stunning pot of vegan avocado pesto pasta, and believe me, you’ll so love it.

The avocado pesto is makes the difference, it is the difference between this pasta meal and others. You blend ripe avocados into a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. The fresh basil gives it that classic pesto flavor, while the lemon juice brightens things up and keeps the avocado from browning. Instead of Parmesan, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory touch that works beautifully with the other ingredients. Pine nuts give a subtle nutty flavor, but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly twist, walnuts are just as delicious.

Like I mentioned earlier, one of the best things about this vegan pasta recipe is how simple it is to make. You boil the pasta, add a few pesto ingredients into a food processor, and in less time than it takes to scroll through takeout options, you have a vibrant, creamy pasta dish sitting in front of you.

If you like adding a little extra texture and flavor, try adding some cherry tomatoes that have been lightly sauteed until they burst. They add a sweet and tangy bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy pesto. A handful of baby spinach or arugula stirred in at the end is another easy way to boost the greens without any extra fuss.

The pasta you choose is totally up to you. Spaghetti works well, but penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta all hold the sauce beautifully. The avocado pesto sauce is also amazing spread on toast, stirred into quinoa, or even used as a dip for fresh veggies, so if you make a little extra, it definitely won’t go to waste.

The below recipe is structured to put your through the steps better. One thing I can guarantee is, you’ll always come back to this recipe.

My Favorite Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

One of the most enjoyable vegan pasta recipes ever is the avocado pesto pasta and with this very simple recipe, you're about to become a pro at making it the way you enjoy.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 Servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian, Vegan

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz 340 g spaghetti or your favorite pasta gluten-free if you want
• 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for tossing
• Salt for pasta water

For the Avocado Pesto:

• 2 ripe avocados peeled and pitted
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves packed
• 2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts for a budget-friendly option
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup water adjust for desired creaminess
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot
• Strainer or colander
• Food processor or blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chef’s knife and cutting board

Method

 

Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Make the Avocado Pesto

1. In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, basil, pine nuts, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and water.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water if you want a thinner consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Pesto

1. In the same pot (off the heat), toss cooked pasta with the avocado pesto.
2. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to help coat the noodles evenly.

Serve

1. Divide into bowls and garnish with extra basil, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, or toasted pine nuts if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcal

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