Creamy avocado “pesto” pasta is the perfect unexpected treat to get your Monday started off right! This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a burst of nutrients. With its smooth texture and vibrant flavors, this recipe is ideal for lunch at home or as a quick meal to pack for work or school. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various occasions, from casual family dinners to impressive gatherings with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- Nutrient-Packed: With ingredients like avocado and arugula, you’ll be fueling your body with healthy fats and vitamins.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta or add any veggies you have on hand.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make extra servings for easy lunches throughout the week!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy a creamy sauce without any dairy, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this delicious avocado “pesto” pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Large pot
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool makes blending the avocado pesto quick and efficient, ensuring a smooth sauce.
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for plenty of room when cooking pasta, preventing clumping.
- Colander: Draining pasta is simple with a colander, helping you avoid soggy noodles.
Ingredients
Creamy avocado pasta is the perfect unexpected treat to get your Monday started off right!
For the Pasta
- 4-8 ounces of brown rice or soba noodles, (or any pasta/noodles of choice)
For the Avocado Pesto Sauce
- 3/4 cup tightly packed arugula
- 1/4 cup water, (plus more as needed to thin the sauce)
- 1-1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1/2 of large ripe avocado
- 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, (more to taste)
- Black pepper to taste
- 2-3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil (optional but recommended; omit if oil-free)
For Assembly
- 1/2 to 1 cup chickpeas (depends on your appetite)
- 1 small handful of tomatoes: cherry tomatoes (halved or regular tomatoes chopped)
- 1 small handful of arugula or thinly sliced kale (optional)
How to Make Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook your pasta/noodles according to package instructions.
1. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooked.
2. Divide the cooked noodles into half; use half for Monday’s lunch and store the remainder in the fridge for Tuesday’s lunch.
Step 2: Make the Avocado Pesto Sauce
Prepare the creamy sauce while your pasta cooks.
1. Add the arugula, water, lemon juice, and garlic to a food processor.
2. Process until broken down and the sauce starts to come together.
3. Add the avocado, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Blend until you have a relatively smooth and creamy sauce. Season to taste by adding more salt/pepper or lemon juice as needed.
Step 3: Assemble Your Dish
Combine everything for a delicious meal.
1. Toss the cooked pasta with the Avocado Pesto Sauce in a large bowl.
2. Add in chickpeas, arugula, tomatoes, and any other ingredients you want to include.
3. Toss well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Enjoy your flavorful Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta!
How to Serve Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
Serving Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta can be a delightful experience. This creamy dish offers versatility in its presentation and pairing, making it suitable for different occasions or personal preferences.
Fresh Greens
- Arugula Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
- Spinach: Sautéed spinach adds a nutritious touch and vibrant color to your plate.
Protein Boost
- Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken on top enhances flavor and adds protein.
- Tofu Crumbles: For a vegan option, add seasoned tofu crumbles for an extra protein kick.
Extra Veggies
- Roasted Bell Peppers: These add sweetness and depth, making your dish more colorful.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb alternative, serve the pasta with spiralized zucchini.
Nuts and Seeds
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkling toasted pine nuts gives a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creaminess.
- Chia Seeds: Adding chia seeds not only enhances nutrition but also adds a slight crunch.
How to Perfect Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
Perfecting Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta involves attention to detail, ensuring each bite is full of flavor and texture. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.
- Use ripe avocados: The creaminess of the sauce relies heavily on using perfectly ripe avocados for that smooth texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
- Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can elevate the flavor profile of your avocado pesto.
- Warm the pasta: Serving the pasta warm helps the sauce coat it better and enhances overall enjoyment.
Best Side Dishes for Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this creamy dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast to the smooth pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that balances flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition while enhancing visual appeal.
- Quinoa Salad: A zesty quinoa salad pairs well by adding protein and fiber to your meal.
- Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip helps in balancing the rich flavors of the avocado pesto.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory element that complements the dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the seasoning – Not adding enough salt or pepper can make your dish bland. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
- Using unripe avocados – Unripe avocados won’t provide the creamy texture you desire. Choose ripe avocados for the best flavor and consistency.
- Overcooking the pasta – Cooking your noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for perfect al dente pasta.
- Ignoring proper storage – Improperly storing leftovers can lead to spoilage. Store your pasta in airtight containers in the fridge promptly after cooling.
- Not blending enough – Failing to blend the sauce long enough may leave it chunky instead of smooth. Blend until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- To prevent browning, consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta.
Reheating Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta?
Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta is a creamy and nutritious dish made with ripe avocado instead of traditional pesto ingredients, creating a unique spin on pasta.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use brown rice or soba noodles for a gluten-free option that pairs perfectly with the avocado pesto.
How can I customize my Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta?
Feel free to add grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or nuts for added protein and texture, tailoring it to your taste!
What other herbs can I use for this recipe?
You can experiment with basil or spinach in place of arugula for varied flavors while still keeping it fresh and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta is not only a delightful way to kick off your week, but it’s also versatile enough for any meal. With its creamy avocado sauce, this dish can easily be customized with different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its wholesome goodness!
Monday: Avocado “Pesto” Pasta
Creamy avocado “pesto” pasta is the ultimate quick and nutritious dish to brighten your Monday! This delightful recipe combines ripe avocados with fresh arugula, creating a smooth and vibrant pesto that coats your favorite pasta perfectly. Packed with healthy fats and vitamins, it’s an excellent choice for a wholesome lunch at home or on the go. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it at family gatherings, this versatile meal adapts to any occasion. Plus, it’s dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Enjoy this creamy avocado pasta as a satisfying start to your week!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 4-8 ounces of brown rice or soba noodles (or any pasta of choice)
- 3/4 cup tightly packed arugula
- 1/2 large ripe avocado
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Extra virgin olive oil, chickpeas, tomatoes
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor, blend arugula, garlic, lemon juice, and water until combined. Add the avocado, salt, pepper, and olive oil; blend until smooth.
- Toss cooked pasta with avocado pesto sauce in a large bowl. Incorporate chickpeas and tomatoes if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
