Recipe

How to Make Quick and Easy Avocado Pasta

By Angela Kerndl at University of Illinois

Don't get me wrong, I'm just as obsessed with avocado as the next person, but the thought of avocado on anything but toast kind of freaked me out. Why on earth would anyone want avocado on their pasta? That just sounds plain weird. Well, I proved myself wrong—it's actually pretty tasty.   

This avocado pasta is quick and easy to make—ideal for the hectic life of a college student. The recipe only has a few ingredients, and probably ones you already have lying around at home anyway.  

It's perfect for those long busy days, like the ones leading up to finals. I made this dish really fast before class and it was super convenient to come home to a nice, healthy meal without the hassle. 

After trying this pasta, you'll also realize that avocado really can taste good in just about anything.  All hail the avocado!

Avocado Pasta

  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Total Time: 15 mins
  • Servings: 2
Ingredients
  • 2 cups pasta any kind
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/2 cup spinach
  • 1/4 cup basil
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 tomato

Angela Kerndl

Step 1

Follow the instructions on the package for how to cook your pasta. Add salt to taste.

Angela Kerndl

Step 2

While your pasta is cooking, throw together the avocado, spinach, basil, pecans and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth.

Angela Kerndl

Step 3

Once the pasta is done, add 3/4 cup of leftover water from cooking the pasta to the blender and blend with the rest of the ingredients.

Angela Kerndl

Step 4

Toss together the pasta and green sauce in a large bowl and mix until the sauce is evenly dispersed.

Angela Kerndl

Step 5

Chop the tomato into small pieces and add it to the pasta.

Angela Kerndl

You may notice that if you save some for leftovers, the color has changed to a darker and less pretty green (you can thank the avocado for that one), but don't worry, it all tastes the same.

And just when you thought the avocado was done surprising you with how great it is, it comes back to impress again! While you don't have to add the tomatoes, the lovely green and red colors of this pasta will surely get you in the Christmas spirit, which is the best part of the entire recipe if I'm being honest.