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Looking for a fresh and healthy dish that bursts with flavor? Avocado Lime Green Goddess Pasta is the answer! This vibrant recipe combines ripe avocados, fresh herbs, and pasta into a delicious meal that’s easy to make. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Join me as I guide you through creating this delightful dish that not only tastes amazing but will also impress your guests!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Vibrant Flavors: This pasta dish combines the creamy richness of avocados with the bright zest of lime, creating a flavor explosion that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with healthy fats from avocados and vitamins from spinach and basil, this recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to nourish your body.
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or nuts, making it a versatile dish that suits any taste preference.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fusilli)
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 clove garlic
Additional Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
– Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (for garnish)
For this dish, fresh ingredients shine. Start with pasta, which holds the sauce well. I love using spaghetti or fusilli for this recipe. The shape impacts how the sauce clings. Next, ripe avocados offer creaminess and flavor. Choose avocados that yield slightly when pressed. Fresh basil and spinach add vibrant green color and nutrients. Garlic brings depth and warmth to the sauce.
The lime juice brightens the dish. Its tang cuts through the richness of the avocados. Olive oil adds smoothness and helps blend the sauce. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy taste, but it’s optional. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. For garnishes, I recommend halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and toasted nuts for crunch. Each ingredient plays a role in making this pasta fresh and healthy.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You want it to taste like the sea. Add your pasta of choice, like spaghetti or fusilli. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta but save about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water. This water will help your sauce stick later.
Preparing the Green Goddess Sauce
Now, let’s make the sauce. Gather your ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 clove garlic
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
In a food processor, add the avocado, basil, spinach, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and nutritional yeast if you want that cheesy flavor. Blend everything until it’s smooth. If the sauce looks too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Time to mix it all together. In the pot you used for the pasta, add the drained pasta and pour in the Green Goddess sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add more of the reserved pasta water a little at a time. This will help the sauce stick and make it creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Now, it’s time to serve! Divide the pasta among your favorite bowls. Top each bowl with halved cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for some crunch. For an extra zing, you can drizzle a bit more lime juice over the top before serving. Enjoy your fresh and healthy dish!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting the Sauce
For the best sauce, aim for a creamy yet smooth texture. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This will help you get the perfect consistency. Taste as you go to balance flavors. A little lime juice brightens the dish and cuts through the creaminess of the avocados. Adjust the lime juice to your liking for the best flavor.
Pasta Cooking Tips
To avoid mushy pasta, use a large pot with plenty of boiling water. Salt the water well before adding the pasta for flavor. Follow the package instructions and cook until al dente. This keeps the pasta firm and chewy. I recommend using spaghetti or fusilli. These shapes hold the sauce well and add a fun twist to your dish.
Serving Tips
Pair this pasta with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a light meal. For gatherings, consider serving it in a large bowl. Top each serving with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. A drizzle of lime juice before serving adds a bright touch that impresses guests.
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Avocados: Ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe for a creamy sauce. A ripe avocado will yield slightly to pressure and have a richer flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or parsley along with basil for a unique flavor twist in your Green Goddess sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce consistency and allows it to better cling to the pasta.
- Make It Vegan: The nutritional yeast is optional, but using it adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. This makes the dish entirely vegan while still being delicious.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the greens in this dish. Try using kale or arugula instead of spinach and basil. Both give a nice twist to the flavor. If you want a vegan option, you can skip the nutritional yeast. Instead, add a bit more lime juice for a zesty taste.
Different Pasta Types
This recipe works well with many pasta types. If you need gluten-free, use brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta. Whole grain pasta adds a nutty flavor. You can also use different shapes like penne or farfalle. This makes it fun and visually appealing.
Extra Flavor Additions
To add more flavor, include seasonal veggies. Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers work nicely. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes or cumin. These spices give the pasta a kick that makes each bite exciting.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container. Make sure the container seals tightly to keep the moisture in. I recommend using glass containers, as they prevent any unwanted smells. Store in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the freshness may fade.
Freezing Options
If you want to prepare a batch for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the pasta will expand when frozen. You can freeze it for up to a month.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge. For reheating, add it to a pan over low heat with a splash of water. Stir until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave. Just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. This keeps the pasta moist and tasty.
FAQs
Can I make Avocado Lime Green Goddess Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook the pasta and make the sauce. Store each in separate containers. Keep the pasta in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce lasts about two days. Before serving, mix them together. Add a splash of pasta water to keep it creamy. This way, your meal stays fresh and tasty.
What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?
If you do not want to use nutritional yeast, try using grated parmesan cheese. It adds a nice, cheesy taste. For a non-dairy option, use ground cashews or sunflower seeds. These can mimic the texture and taste well. Each option changes the flavor slightly, so choose based on what you like best.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This recipe is great for meal prep. Cooked pasta and sauce store well. Divide portions into meal containers. You can grab them for lunch or dinner. When ready to eat, just warm them up. You might want to add fresh toppings like tomatoes or nuts. This adds a nice crunch and flavor. Enjoy your easy meal!
This recipe for Avocado Lime Green Goddess Pasta uses fresh ingredients to create a tasty dish. You learned about making a creamy sauce, cooking pasta perfectly, and adding fun toppings. Remember, you can customize it with different greens or pasta types. Store leftovers safely for later enjoyment, and don’t forget the meal prep tips! Enjoy experimenting with your own flavors and variations. Make this wholesome meal a hit at your next gatherin
Avocado Lime Green Goddess Pasta
A creamy and vibrant pasta dish featuring a green goddess sauce made with avocados, fresh herbs, and lime.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or fusilli)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional for a cheesy flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (for garnish)
- Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts (for garnish)
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
Make the Green Goddess Sauce: In a food processor, combine the avocados, basil, spinach, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and nutritional yeast (if using). Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: In the pot used for the pasta, add the drained pasta and pour in the Green Goddess sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding more reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce adhere.
Serve: Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Top with halved cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for added crunch.
Garnish: Drizzle a little extra lime juice over the top for a fresh touch before serving.
Add more lime juice for extra tang if desired.
Keyword avocado, green goddess, healthy, pasta, vegan
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