CREAMY AVOCADO SPINACH PASTA
This creamy avocado spinach pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal. The combination of mashed avocado and fresh spinach creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats each strand of spaghetti with a burst of vibrant flavour. A touch of lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the creamy texture with a subtle zest. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, offering a delicious alternative to traditional creamy pasta sauces. The natural creaminess of the avocado eliminates the need for heavy cream or butter, making it a healthier choice. The addition of spinach not only enhances the colour but also provides a boost of vitamins and minerals. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based meal or a simple pasta dish that’s both nourishing and flavourful, this recipe is a must-try.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Entrée
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, Italian
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
5 ingredients or less, One-Pot Wonders, No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Quick Weeknight Dinner, Summer, Healthy Eating
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian, Healthy, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Pasta
INGREDIENTS
The list of ingredients for creamy avocado spinach pasta is given below:
- 50g spaghetti, cooked
- ¼ avocado, mashed
- 10g fresh spinach
- ½ tsp lemon juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fibre: 5g
- Sodium: 10mg
PREPARATION
- Cook The Spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- Prepare The Avocado Sauce: In a bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth. Stir in the lemon juice to maintain freshness and enhance flavour.
- Combine The Ingredients: Add the fresh spinach to the warm spaghetti, allowing it to wilt slightly from the heat. Mix in the mashed avocado, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Adjust Consistency: If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for a smoother texture.
- Serve And Enjoy: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with additional spinach or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
10 minutes
TIPS FOR CREAMY AVOCADO SPINACH PASTA
- Use Ripe Avocado: A perfectly ripe avocado ensures a smooth and creamy sauce, avoiding a chunky texture.
- Keep The Pasta Warm: Mixing the avocado sauce with warm pasta helps it blend seamlessly, creating a silky consistency.
- Enhance The Flavour: A pinch of garlic powder or nutritional yeast can add extra depth to the dish.
- Add Texture: Top with toasted pine nuts or crushed walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Balance The Acidity: If the lemon juice is too strong, add a tiny drizzle of honey to mellow it out.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp or tofu for added protein.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in grated parmesan or feta for a savoury upgrade.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap out spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh basil, parsley or dill for an aromatic touch.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Since avocado can oxidise, mix in extra lemon juice before storing to maintain colour and freshness.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as avocados can develop an unpleasant texture when frozen. If necessary, freeze without the avocado and mix in fresh avocado when reheating.
- Meal Prep: Cook the pasta ahead of time and store it separately from the sauce, combining just before serving for the best texture and taste.