Dinner

Creamy Avocado Pasta Recipe

BySana Jeannette March 6, 2026March 6, 2026

Introduction

Creamy Avocado Pasta is a quick and delicious dish that combines the richness of ripe avocado with fresh garlic and spinach for a vibrant, healthy sauce. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and can be prepared on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot.

A white bowl filled with creamy green pesto penne pasta, each pasta piece coated in a thick, slightly chunky green sauce with visible small bits of herbs. The penne is well coated with a fresh, glossy texture and topped with small red chili flakes scattered evenly for a touch of color and spice. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a bit of green leafy garnish peeking in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta (about 2–2.5 cups; semolina or any pasta)
2 cups water

Salt to taste
1 large ripe avocado

2 garlic cloves
1 cup baby spinach (or basil, optional)

Crushed black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup water (or as needed for sauce)
Red chili flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta. For stovetop, bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a large pot, add salt, then add pasta. Stir occasionally and cook according to package instructions (about 10–12 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: For Instant Pot, add dry pasta, water, and salt to the pot so the pasta is mostly covered. Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes (for al dente). After cooking, wait 5 minutes, then quick release pressure and drain any excess water.
Step 3: Prepare the avocado sauce by blending the avocado, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, spinach, salt, black pepper, and 1/4 cup water in a food processor until smooth. Add more water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 4: Combine the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Sprinkle red chili flakes on top and add parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and appearance.

Tips & Variations

Use basil instead of spinach for a traditional pesto flavor.
Add parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra richness.

If you prefer creamier texture, add a splash of olive oil or more water while blending the sauce.
Serve with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.

Storage

Store leftover avocado pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Because avocado browns quickly, it’s best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a little water or oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows cooked penne pasta in a silver metal pot, coated evenly with a creamy green pesto sauce. The pasta pieces are piled together in the pot with the sauce clinging to their ridged surfaces, giving a creamy and slightly chunky texture. The green sauce is bright and fresh, spreading into the hollow tubes and coating the outside, while some sauce residue is visible on the sides of the pot. The pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or farfalle. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the pasta package instructions.

How do I keep the avocado sauce from turning brown?

Adding lemon juice to the avocado helps prevent browning, and serving the pasta soon after preparation keeps it fresh. Avoid storing for more than a day to maintain the vibrant color and flavor.