Welcome to a delicious corner of the culinary world where we explore the wonders of plant based cooking! Today, we’re featuring a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious: Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta. This vegan pasta recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor.
Why Choose Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta?
In today’s fast paced world, finding quick and healthy meal options can be a challenge. This Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta is designed to be both simple to prepare and packed with nutrients. It’s a delightful combination of creamy avocados, fresh spinach, and your choice of pasta, creating a dish that is both comforting and nourishing.
Key Benefits:
- Nutrient Dense: Avocados are rich in healthy fats, while spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals.
- Quick to Prepare: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: It can be customized with additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need.
To create this delicious pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- Pasta of your choice – 300g (spaghetti, penne, or whole wheat)
- Fresh spinach – 2 cups, washed and chopped
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- Ripe avocados – 2 medium sized
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (adds brightness)
- Nutritional yeast – 2 tablespoons (for a cheesy flavor)
- Almond milk – 1/4 cup (or any plant based milk)
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts or pine nuts – for added crunch.
- Cherry tomatoes – halved for a burst of sweetness.
- Fresh basil or parsley – for a vibrant finish.
Step by Step Instructions:
1. Cook 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 about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Avocado Sauce.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocados, minced garlic, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, almond milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Saute the Spinach.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauteed spinach and toss gently to combine.
- Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta and mix until everything is well coated. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish.
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls. Top with chopped walnuts or pine nuts, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy, creamy avocado spinach pasta!
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta.
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best flavor and texture. They should feel slightly soft when pressed.
- Experiment with Greens: While spinach is fantastic, feel free to mix in other greens like kale or arugula for added nutrition.
- Customize Your Pasta: You can use gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a low carb option.
- Add Protein: Enhance the dish by adding cooked chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for a protein boost.
Health Benefits of Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta.
- Avocados: Loaded with heart healthy monounsaturated fats, avocados help reduce bad cholesterol and are rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamins.
- Spinach: An excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, spinach supports bone health and boosts the immune system.
- Plant Based Nutrition: This dish is entirely vegan, making it cholesterol free and rich in beneficial nutrients that support overall health.
For added flavor and a touch of brilliance to this dish, I love to roast the cherry tomatoes and garlic in a foil packet in the oven for about 20 minutes. This simple step enhances their natural sweetness and infuses the pasta with a rich, savory taste. Once roasted, just add them to the pasta dish, and you won’t believe the depth of flavor it brings! You truly can’t beat this extra layer of deliciousness!
Conclusion.
This Creamy Avocado Spinach Pasta is a delightful and nutritious dish that embodies the essence of healthy eating. Its creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and easy preparation make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a quick vegan meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner for friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress. With its array of health benefits and delicious taste, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular meal rotation. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of creamy, dreamy goodness. Wash it down with a good bottle of red wine. Bon Appetit! 🍽️🌿
Look through their whole recipe at: https://www.soofoodies.com/recipe/cre…
Frequently Asked Questions.
1. Is this pasta dish gluten free?
Yes! Simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten free alternative, such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
2. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the avocado sauce may darken slightly.
3. What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat, sun dried tomatoes for sweetness, or olives for a briny kick!
4. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.
5. How can I make this dish more filling?
Add protein sources like cooked chickpeas, black beans, or grilled tofu for a heartier meal.