Save This Vegan Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant and refreshing main dish that proves healthy eating can be incredibly indulgent. Featuring a silky-smooth avocado-lime sauce and perfectly al dente noodles, this easy fusion recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick, nutrient-dense meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Save Blending fresh basil and garlic into the sauce creates a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of halved cherry tomatoes. Whether you are a long-time vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, this pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g dried spaghetti or linguine (gluten-free if desired), salt for pasta water
- Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce: 2 ripe avocados (peeled and pitted), 1 large lime (juiced, about 2–3 tbsp), 2 cloves garlic (peeled), 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat), 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Toppings: 250 g cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional), fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, basil, plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk or reserved pasta water to loosen.
- Step 3: Combine
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained pasta with the avocado-lime sauce until well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky texture.
- Step 4: Add Tomatoes
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts and extra basil leaves.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the smoothest sauce, ensure your avocados are fully ripe. If you find the consistency too thick after blending, don't hesitate to use the starchy reserved pasta water to loosen it up—this helps the sauce cling to every strand of spaghetti perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily boost the protein in this dish by adding cooked chickpeas or white beans. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pasta works wonderfully, and a tablespoon of nutritional yeast can be added to the sauce for a subtle cheesy flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
This vibrant dish is best enjoyed immediately while fresh. Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a sophisticated touch, or keep it light and refreshing with a glass of chilled sparkling water infused with lime wedges.
Save With its vibrant green hue and burst of sweet tomato flavor, this 20-minute recipe is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy your healthy and delicious pasta!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How long does the avocado sauce stay fresh?
The avocado-lime sauce is best enjoyed immediately but will keep in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The surface may oxidize slightly, but a squeeze of fresh lime juice helps maintain color.
- → Can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely. Simply substitute the spaghetti or linguine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based noodles all work beautifully with the creamy avocado sauce.
- → What can I use instead of pine nuts?
Toast sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or sliced almonds make excellent alternatives. For a nut-free option, try roasted pumpkin seeds or simply omit the crunchy topping and add more fresh basil.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water helps thin the sauce to a silky consistency. You can also add small amounts of plant-based milk until you reach your desired texture.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Cooked chickpeas, white beans, or lentils blend seamlessly with the creamy sauce. Grilled tempeh, baked tofu, or pan-seared chickpeas also work well as toppings for added protein and texture.