Dinner in 20: Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta

Are you in search of a delish yet time-efficient meal to satisfy your cravings? Look no further! This creamy avocado pesto pasta recipe is here to rescue your busy days. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish will leave you feeling both satisfied and energized. Plus, it takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect option for those hectic weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Avocado Pesto?

Avocado is not only creamy and delicious, but also incredibly nutritious. Rich in healthy fats, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals, avocados offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better digestion, and glowing skin. Pairing it with pesto, a classic Italian sauce made with fresh herbs, nuts, cheese, and olive oil, creates a flavorful combination that will tantalize your taste buds.

20-minute meals, YES PLEASE!

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? Do you crave meals that are both tasty and time-efficient? If so, you’re not alone! As someone who values convenience without sacrificing flavor, I have a deep appreciation for 20-minute meals. Here are five reasons why I love them, and why you should too!

1. Time-Saving Wonder:

In today’s fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. 20-minute meals are a game-changer for busy individuals and families alike. Whether you’re juggling work or a hectic schedule, having a quick and easy meal option can be a lifesaver. With minimal prep and cooking time, these meals allow you to spend less time in the kitchen (and fewer dishes!!)

2. Stress-Free Cooking:

Long, elaborate recipes can be intimidating – even for me! 20-minute meals take the stress out of cooking by offering simple recipes for everyone. From stir-fries to pasta dishes to hearty salads, there’s a wide variety of quick and easy recipes to choose from – just check out my recipe index! With just a few basic ingredients and some creative flair, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.

3. Versatile and Customizable:

One of the things I love most about 20-minute meals is their versatility. Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or spicy, there’s a quick and easy recipe to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, these meals are highly customizable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or vegan, there’s a 20-minute meal out there for everyone.

4. Healthy and Nutritious:

Contrary to popular belief, quick and easy meals can be both healthy and nutritious. With the right ingredients, you can create balanced meals that are packed with flavor and nutrients. From lean proteins to fresh vegetables to whole grains, 20-minute meals offer endless possibilities for creating wholesome dishes that are extremely nourishing. Plus, by cooking at home, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to make healthier choices and choose what you are putting into your food.

5. Budget-Friendly:

20-minute meals are not only time-efficient but also budget-friendly. By cooking at home, you can save money on expensive restaurant meals and reduce food waste by using up ingredients you already have on hand!

Ingredients Needed

• pasta of choice – I used Paccheri
• sun-dried tomatoes
• mozzarella balls
• medium ripe avocado
• lemon
• olive oil
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• fresh basil
• pine nuts
• garlic cloves
• pine nuts
• Fresh basil
• salt & pepper

Watch the Recipe Video

Avocado Pesto Pasta

Indulge in a flavorful and nutritious dish with this avocado pesto pasta recipe! This quick and easy meal combines creamy avocado, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously satisfying sauce!

Print It Pin It

Cook Time:20 minutes mins

Yields: 4

Ingredients

• 1 box of pasta of choice
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cups mozzarella balls

Pesto

• 1 medium ripe avocado
• 1/2 lemon juiced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• 2 handfuls fresh basil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• salt & pepper

Garnish

• 1/3 cup pine nuts toasted
• Fresh basil
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• few cracks of black pepper

Instructions

• Directions
• Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Once water is boiling, add in pasta and cook according to box instructions—Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and set aside.
• In a food processor, combine all pesto ingredients and process for 30-45 seconds until smooth.
• Taste and season as necessary.
• Add pine nuts to a small saucepan, heat over medium temperature and cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and toasted.
• Add pesto and heat for 5-6 minutes in a large saucepan. Add in cooked pasta and pasta water as needed. Grate in parmesan cheese and add in sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add pasta to a large bowl and mix with mozzarella balls. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, parmesan cheese, black pepper and basil. Serve and enjoy!