A Fresh, Creamy Pasta That’s Totally Plant-Based
If you’re craving creamy pasta without the dairy—or the heaviness—this Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta is your new best friend. It’s vibrant, zesty, and silky smooth thanks to ripe avocado, fresh basil, lemon juice, and garlic—all blended into a luscious pesto-style sauce.
Searches for “avocado pasta sauce” and “dairy-free pesto” are trending in 2024, and for good reason: avocado adds natural creaminess, healthy fats, and a dose of green goodness. This dish takes less than 20 minutes to make and tastes like summer in a bowl.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping a quick lunch, or making an impressive vegan dinner, this one ticks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- Ultra creamy without cream – Avocado gives the sauce body and silkiness
- Nutrient-rich – Healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins in every bite
- Quick & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes
- Vibrant & flavorful – Bursting with fresh basil and lemon
- Customizable – Add veggies, protein, or serve cold as a pasta salad
Ingredients Overview
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe avocado | 1 large | Hass avocados work best |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 cup packed | Spinach or arugula for variation |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Adjust to taste |
| Lemon juice | 2 Tbsp | Adds brightness |
| Olive oil | 3 Tbsp | Optional for oil-free version |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Or to taste |
| Water | ¼–½ cup | To thin the sauce as needed |
| Pasta (spaghetti, penne, etc.) | 8 oz | Use gluten-free if needed |
| Optional toppings | Cherry tomatoes, vegan parmesan, red pepper flakes | Adds color and crunch |
How to Make Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Pesto
In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine avocado, basil, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and ¼ cup water. Blend until smooth, adding more water as needed for desired consistency.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Transfer drained pasta back to the pot or a large bowl. Add avocado pesto and toss until well coated. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 4: Top and Enjoy
Serve immediately with cherry tomatoes, red pepper flakes, or vegan cheese. Best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – serves 4)
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
This pasta is rich in potassium, vitamin E, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator
Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Avocado Tip
Press plastic wrap against the surface of leftover sauce to prevent browning.
Meal Prep Idea
Make the sauce ahead and store separately. Toss with fresh pasta before serving.
Variations & Add-Ins
Add Protein
Top with roasted chickpeas, marinated tofu, or white beans.
Make it a Bowl
Serve over zucchini noodles, farro, or quinoa for a grain-free version.
Veggie Boost
Add steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms.
Nutty Twist
Blend in pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts for pesto-style richness.
Zesty Upgrade
Add lemon zest or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor punch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without a food processor?
Yes—a high-speed blender will work. Just add liquids first to help it blend smoothly.
Will the avocado turn brown?
Over time, yes. Eat immediately or store with lemon juice and plastic wrap touching the surface.
Can I make this oil-free?
Absolutely—just skip the oil and use extra water or plant milk for creaminess.
What’s the best pasta for this?
Short shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce well, but spaghetti and linguine work beautifully too.
Is it okay to eat this cold?
Yes! It makes a delicious cold pasta salad—just thin the sauce slightly before tossing.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with toasted pine nuts or hemp seeds
- Add blistered cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes
- Serve with a simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables
- Garnish with microgreens or fresh basil
- Pair with garlic bread or grain-free crackers
Snap the Green Goodness
Make this Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta, snap your creamy green bowl, and tag @YourFoodBlog using #PestoGlowUp. We love sharing our readers’ bright, bold creations every week!
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