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Close-up shot of a serving plate on the white marble cooktop. The pesto-coated pasta is garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of black pepper, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta Recipe

This creamy avocado pesto pasta is a quick and healthy vegan dish. Bursting with basil, spinach, and garlic flavors, it's a satisfying, vibrant meal perfect for any day of the week!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine vegan
Servings 4
Calories 416 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • High-powered blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces dry pasta of choice
  • 1 large ripe avocado skin and seed removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 and ½ cups basil loosely packed
  • 1 cup frozen spinach thawed; or use 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cloves garlic roughly chopped
  • ¼ cup raw unsalted cashews
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice from ½ large lemon
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • cherry tomatoes for serving

Instructions
 

  • Cook Pasta: Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
    Close-up shot of a large black pot on the white marble cooktop, boiling dry pasta of choice in salted water. Steam rises, and a slotted spoon is resting on the side.
  • Prepare Pesto: In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, olive oil, basil, spinach, garlic, cashews, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
    Close-up shot of a high-powered blender on the white marble cooktop. Inside the blender jar are ripe avocado chunks, olive oil, loosely packed basil leaves, thawed spinach, rough-chopped garlic cloves, raw cashews, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The vibrant green ingredients are layered and ready for blending.
  • Blend Smoothly: Process until smooth and spreadable, scraping down sides as needed. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  • Mix Pasta and Pesto: Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto until well-coated.
    Close-up shot of a large black bowl on the white marble cooktop. The cooked pasta is being tossed with the creamy green avocado pesto, using a wooden spoon. The pasta is evenly coated with the vibrant sauce.
  • Garnish and Serve: Drizzle with olive oil, add cherry tomatoes, and serve warm or chilled.
    Close-up shot of a large black pot on the white marble cooktop, boiling dry pasta of choice in salted water. Steam rises, and a slotted spoon is resting on the side.