Merken Experience a vibrant twist on a childhood classic with this Creamy Avocado Pesto Mac. This recipe combines a luscious, heart-healthy avocado and fresh basil pesto sauce with tender pasta, creating a meal that is both nutritious and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner, it's a vegetarian fusion dish that feels both indulgent and fresh.
Merken This fusion of Italian-American flavors is more than just a quick meal; it's a nutrient-dense powerhouse. By using the heat of the pasta to warm the fresh pesto, you preserve the delicate flavors of the extra virgin olive oil and the bright color of the basil, making every bite feel remarkably fresh.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) macaroni or short pasta of choice, 1 tsp salt (for pasta water).
- Avocado Pesto Sauce: 2 ripe avocados (peeled and pitted), 40 g (1 cup, loosely packed) fresh basil leaves, 2 cloves garlic, 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon), 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant milk), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Garnish (optional): Extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, cracked black pepper.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2
- While pasta cooks, combine avocados, basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon juice, milk, salt, and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a splash more milk if needed to reach a silky sauce consistency.
- Step 3
- Return drained pasta to the pot. Pour in the avocado pesto sauce and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce as needed.
- Step 4
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, basil, and black pepper if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the smoothest sauce possible, use avocados that are fully ripe and soft to the touch. Don't forget to reserve your pasta water; the starchy liquid is the secret to helping the avocado pesto emulsify and coat every curve of the macaroni.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use an unsweetened plant-based milk. To make the dish gluten-free, simply use your favorite certified gluten-free short pasta. You can also add roasted pine nuts or sautéed spinach for extra texture.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the vibrant green color and creamy consistency. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and a few extra cracks of black pepper. For a pop of color, consider tossing in some halved cherry tomatoes just before serving.
Merken With its silky texture and nutritious ingredients, this Creamy Avocado Pesto Mac is a delightful way to refresh your comfort food routine. Whether you're serving it for a quick lunch or a family dinner, it is sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
