Introducing our first recipe of the blog: the Avocado Spinach Pasta! I thought it’d be a great idea to kick off my blog with one of my favorite dishes: pasta. Oh, I’ve been addicted to pasta dishes for a decade now. Thanks to its versatility, you can mix various ingredients to make it delicious and healthy for you and your loved ones!
So, today, I’m sharing a healthy and simple recipe for Avocado Spinach Pasta that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe combines the goodness of avocados and spinach to create a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For this healthy pasta recipe, you will need:
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your favorite type. p/s: I like to use fettucine for this!)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Steps
Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Avocado Spinach Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, spinach, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the avocado spinach sauce. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it in and mix thoroughly.
Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and extra flavor. You can also add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy:
- Serve the pasta immediately and enjoy this healthy, creamy, and satisfying dish.
Tips for a Perfect Pasta Dish
Just a few tips that I’ve learnt whilst perfecting this recipe (a shoutout to my mom and my neighbor for these!):
- Use Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are ripe for a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen spinach, as it can be too watery.
- Customize Your Garnish: Feel free to get creative with your garnishes. Try adding toasted pine nuts, red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even some grilled chicken for added protein.
Bon Appetit!
This Avocado Spinach Pasta is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding your family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Bon appétit!
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