Creamy Avocado Cilantro Pasta Easy and Delicious Meal
Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This Creamy Avocado Cilantro Pasta is just what you need! Made with simple ingredients, this dish is both easy to make and full of flavor. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step, share helpful tips, and even suggest tasty variations. Let’s get you cooking a meal that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of creamy avocado and fresh cilantro creates a vibrant and refreshing sauce that elevates any pasta dish.
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you want to add more spice or skip the cheese for a vegan option.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and fresh herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 12 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent choices)
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, tightly packed
- 1 medium garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a savory finish)
- A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
Key Ingredient Benefits
Each ingredient plays a vital role in this dish. Avocados provide healthy fats, which are good for your heart. They also add creaminess without the need for heavy cream. Cilantro gives a fresh taste and contains antioxidants. Garlic boosts flavor and offers health benefits too. Lime juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the avocado. Olive oil brings healthy fats and enhances the dish’s texture. Salt and pepper are crucial for seasoning, while red pepper flakes can add a fun kick. Lastly, Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch, making the dish more filling.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find certain ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some swaps you can try:
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Swap cilantro with parsley if you dislike the flavor.
- Lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice for a different zing.
- Instead of Parmesan, try nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
- For a nut-free sauce, skip the cheese and add a bit of tahini for creaminess.
These substitutions ensure you can still enjoy this delicious meal, no matter what you have on hand!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use a good amount of salt; it helps flavor the pasta. Once the water boils, add 12 ounces of your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, save about 1 cup of the starchy water. This water helps the sauce stick later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, letting it cool a bit.
Making the Avocado Sauce
Next, let’s make the creamy avocado sauce. In a blender or food processor, add 2 ripe avocados, 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves, and 1 medium minced garlic clove. Also, add 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, toss in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
Combining and Serving the Dish
Now, it’s time to put it all together. Return the drained pasta to the pot you cooked it in. Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta. Toss it well to coat every strand evenly. If you want to add a savory touch, mix in 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Taste the dish and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta right away, garnished with halved cherry tomatoes for color and flavor. Enjoy your vibrant, delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sauce Texture
To make the sauce just right, start with ripe avocados. They should feel soft but not mushy. When blending, add olive oil and lime juice first. This helps the avocados blend smoothly. If your sauce seems thick, add a little pasta water. This water has starch, which helps make the sauce creamy. Blend until you see a velvety texture.
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To boost the flavor, use fresh cilantro. It adds a bright taste. Don’t skip the garlic; it brings a nice kick. For extra zest, add lime juice. If you like spice, include red pepper flakes. Lastly, if you want a savory touch, mix in Parmesan cheese. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Making Ahead of Time
You can make this dish ahead. Prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. You can cook the pasta earlier too, but don’t mix them. When you’re ready to eat, warm the pasta gently and toss it with the sauce. This way, your dish stays fresh and tasty.
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the creamiest sauce. A ripe avocado will yield slightly to pressure and have a deep green color.
- Adjust for Creaminess: Don’t hesitate to adjust the consistency of the sauce with reserved pasta water until you achieve that silky texture you desire.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh cilantro for the best flavor. If you’re not a fan, try substituting with fresh basil or parsley for a different twist.
- Garnish Generously: Add extra cherry tomatoes and cilantro on top just before serving for a beautiful presentation and an additional flavor boost.
Variations
Adding Protein Options
You can add protein to your creamy avocado cilantro pasta easily. Grilled chicken works great. Cook it simply with salt and pepper. Shrimp is another tasty choice. Sauté shrimp in olive oil until pink. For a plant-based option, try chickpeas. They add texture and protein.
Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptations
This pasta dish is already friendly for vegetarians. To make it vegan, skip the Parmesan cheese. You can use nutritional yeast instead. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. Always check your pasta for egg. Many brands offer vegan pasta options, making this dish accessible for everyone.
Spicy and Non-Spicy Versions
If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. This gives the dish a nice kick. You can also use jalapeños for a fresh spice. If you prefer no spice, simply leave it out. The creamy avocado sauce is still delicious without any heat. Adjust to suit your taste!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover creamy avocado cilantro pasta in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it down first. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Use some extra lime juice to keep it bright and tasty. This helps the flavor and color last longer.
Freezing the Pasta
If you want to freeze the pasta, it’s best to do this before adding the sauce. Cook the pasta, drain it, and let it cool. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the pasta, you have a couple of options. You can use the microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, place the pasta in a bowl, cover it, and heat in short bursts. Stir after each burst to warm evenly. On the stovetop, add a splash of water or olive oil to a pan. Heat over low until warm, stirring gently. If the pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta water or more sauce. This will help bring back its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use many types of pasta. Spaghetti and fettuccine are my favorites. You can also try penne or farfalle. Just make sure it cooks well and holds the sauce.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, skip the Parmesan cheese. The creamy avocado gives great flavor. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. It’s a great choice and still keeps the dish rich.
What is the nutritional information for this dish?
This pasta dish is packed with healthy fats from avocados. Each serving has about:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbs: 40 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
These numbers can change based on your pasta choice and any added ingredients. This meal is a great source of nutrients and will keep you satisfied!
This blog covered making a great pasta dish with avocado sauce. You learned about key ingredients and their benefits. We explored how to cook your pasta and prepare the sauce. You also discovered tips to enhance flavor and perfect the texture. Variations allow for exciting protein or spice options, too. Finally, we shared storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoying this dish can fit many diets and tastes. Now, go ahead and try it for yoursel
Luscious Creamy Avocado Cilantro Pasta
Ingredients
- 12 oz your favorite pasta
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, tightly packed
- 1 medium garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- to taste Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- a handful cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
- Make the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocados, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you’re including red pepper flakes for some heat, add them as well. Blend everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the avocado mixture is too thick for your liking, gradually add small amounts of the reserved pasta water while blending until you reach your preferred creaminess. The result should be rich and velvety without being overly runny.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In the pot you used to cook the pasta, return the drained pasta. Pour the creamy avocado cilantro sauce over the top and toss thoroughly to ensure every strand is well coated.
- Add Cheese and Season: If you opt for Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the pasta now, mixing it in until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
- Serve: Present the pasta immediately, garnished generously with halved cherry tomatoes that add a lovely burst of color and flavor.
![To make a delicious Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie, you will need: - 1 cup green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed - 3 cups vegetable broth - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 medium carrots, diced into small cubes - 2 celery stalks, finely diced - 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary - Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste - 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks - 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy) - 2 tablespoons vegan butter or olive oil You can enhance your shepherd's pie with these optional ingredients: - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness - 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor - 1 cup mushrooms, diced, for a hearty texture - A splash of red wine for depth of flavor This recipe serves 4-6 and is a healthy choice. Each serving has: - Approximately 300 calories - 14 grams of protein - 10 grams of fiber - Low in saturated fat - Rich in vitamins A and C from the veggies When you make this Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, you enjoy a meal that is tasty, filling, and good for you. For the complete cooking details, check out the Full Recipe. To cook the lentils, start by rinsing 1 cup of green or brown lentils. Next, place them in a medium pot with 3 cups of vegetable broth. Bring this mix to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. You want the lentils to be tender but not mushy. Drain any leftover liquid and put the lentils aside. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Then, include 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Cook this mix for another 5-7 minutes until all the veggies are tender. Now, stir in the cooked lentils, 1 cup of peas, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and some salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. While the lentil mix simmers, you can prepare the potatoes. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 4 large, peeled, and chopped potatoes. Cook them until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher. Mix in 1/4 cup of plant-based milk and 2 tablespoons of vegan butter. Keep mashing until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and spoon the lentil mixture into the bottom. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes over the top. Use a fork to create peaks for texture. Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. This dish is now ready to enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. To make creamy mashed potatoes, start with hot potatoes. Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture. Gradually add unsweetened plant-based milk and vegan butter for creaminess. Mix until smooth, but avoid over-mixing. A pinch of salt enhances the flavor. Use fresh ingredients for depth. Start by sautéing onions until soft. Add garlic, carrots, and celery for sweetness. Cook them until tender. Incorporate the lentils with herbs like thyme and rosemary. This step brings out the flavors. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer briefly to blend all the tastes. Serve your Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie hot. Pair it with a crisp green salad for balance. You can also add crusty bread for a hearty touch. For extra flair, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. This adds color and freshness to your meal. Explore different side dishes like roasted vegetables or quinoa for variety. Enjoy your delightful and wholesome dinner! For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make this lentil shepherd's pie gluten-free. Simply replace soy sauce with coconut aminos. This swap keeps the flavor but avoids gluten. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free. If you're avoiding lentils, try chickpeas or black beans as protein sources. For a nut-free version, skip the plant-based milk and use vegetable broth for mashing. You can also use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb twist. Incorporate seasonal vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition. Fresh spinach or zucchini works great in the filling. Mushrooms add a nice umami taste, too. Don't be afraid to mix it up based on what's in season. This keeps your dish fresh and exciting. For the full recipe, refer to the beginning of this article. To store your Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie, let it cool first. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps the flavors intact and helps maintain the pie's texture. If you want to save some pie for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the pie into individual portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. This prevents freezer burn. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat your shepherd's pie, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the pie from the fridge or freezer and unwrap it. Place it in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat it for about 25-30 minutes if cold. If it’s frozen, it might take up to 45 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the top. Enjoy your delicious meal just like it was fresh! Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just drain and rinse them first. They cook faster. This saves time. For this recipe, use about 1.5 cups of canned lentils. You can serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread also works well. The pie is hearty, so keep sides light. It lasts for 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat it in the oven or microwave. Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the pie, then cover it and chill. Bake it just before serving for the best taste. Check out the Full Recipe for more details! This blog post covered how to make a tasty vegan lentil shepherd's pie. We explored essential and optional ingredients, plus nutritional info. I provided clear, step-by-step cooking methods. You learned tips for creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful lentils. We noted variations for different diets and the best ways to store leftovers. In closing, I hope you enjoy making this dish! It’s a great meal for everyone.](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/9ba9e126-74d7-4f69-86a8-52952e7f4e77-768x768.webp)
