Go Back
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine - 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled - 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 2 tablespoons lime juice - 1/4 cup olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon cumin - Salt and pepper to taste The main ingredients create a creamy and tasty dish. You start with pasta, either spaghetti or linguine. I love using ripe avocados because they make the sauce rich and smooth. Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor that mixes well with the garlic. Lime juice gives it a nice tang. Olive oil helps blend everything together. Cumin adds a warm note, while salt and pepper enhance the taste. - 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish) The optional ingredients can elevate your dish. Cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness. If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor. These additions make your creamy avocado cilantro pasta look and taste even better. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. - Add 12 ounces of spaghetti or linguine. - Cook until al dente, as per package instructions. - Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. - In a blender, add two ripe avocados, one cup of cilantro leaves, and two minced garlic cloves. - Pour in two tablespoons of lime juice, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin. - Add salt and pepper to taste. - Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy. - If the sauce is thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the right consistency. - In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta. - Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta. - Toss well to ensure even coating on all the pasta. - Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning as needed. - Choosing ripe avocados: Use soft, ripe avocados for the best flavor. A ripe avocado gives a creamy texture. Press gently; it should yield slightly. - Flavor adjustments with lime juice: Lime juice adds brightness. Start with two tablespoons and taste. You can always add more if needed. - Thick or thin sauce options: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little. For a thicker sauce, blend in less water. - Timing for cooking pasta: Cook spaghetti or linguine until al dente. Follow package instructions for timing. This keeps the pasta firm and tasty. - Importance of reserving pasta water: Always save some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps the sauce stick to the pasta. - Avoiding overcooking: Watch the pasta closely. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy. Test it a minute before the time is up. Pro Tips Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best creamy texture and flavor. They should yield slightly to pressure when squeezed gently. Adjusting Consistency: If your avocado sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and lime juice for a vibrant flavor. Fresh herbs make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish. Serving Suggestions: This pasta can be served warm or at room temperature. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish vegan. Just skip the Parmesan cheese. The creamy sauce tastes great without it. For garnishes, try adding extra cilantro or some chopped green onions. These will add color and flavor to your meal. Want to spice things up? Add some chili flakes for a kick. You can also mix in other herbs. Basil or parsley work well in this dish. These herbs can give the pasta a fresh twist. If you need a gluten-free meal, swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Rice or corn pasta are good choices. They cook well and still taste great with the avocado sauce. To keep your creamy avocado cilantro pasta fresh, store it in the fridge. Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. Make sure to eat the pasta within three days for the best taste. If you have extra avocado sauce, store it separately. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, use gentle heat. The best methods are the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of water to the pan. Stir gently over low heat until warm. For the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots. Adding a little extra olive oil helps keep the sauce creamy. Avoid high heat, or the pasta will dry out. Yes, you can make the avocado sauce ahead. Store it in an airtight container. Add a bit of lime juice to keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for about 1 to 2 days. If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice works well. It gives a nice tang. You can also use vinegar, but it will change the flavor a bit. Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store them in the fridge. Just mix them together when you’re ready to eat. Leftover pasta can last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container to stay fresh. Freezing the avocado sauce is not the best option. It may change texture when thawed. If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container. Use it within 1 month for best quality. To wrap it up, this avocado pasta recipe is simple and tasty. We covered important ingredients like ripe avocados, garlic, and lime juice. You learned how to cook pasta properly and prepare a creamy sauce. Don't skip the tips for perfecting your dish and exploring variations. This meal is great for everyone, including vegans and those needing gluten-free options. With proper storage, your leftovers can stay fresh. Enjoy making this dish, and share your own flavors, too!

Creamy Avocado Cilantro Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish made with ripe avocados and fresh cilantro.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
  • to taste Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta and pour the creamy avocado sauce over it. Toss well to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.
  • Divide the pasta into serving bowls, garnish with halved cherry tomatoes, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature. Adjust lime juice for extra tang.
Keyword avocado, cilantro, creamy, pasta, vegetarian