Avocado Pesto
I love making pasta dinners with a range of sauce options, according to what we’re in the mood for and the ingredients we have on hand. And this avocado pesto is a new favorite—that I love, particularly, because it stores in the fridge and freezer so well. This sauce is bright, fresh, and just a little bit creamy and can be adjusted for any allergies that you may have in the family. (Or just for the ingredients you have access to one week or another.) Along with my Zucchini Pasta Sauce and my Extra-Veggie Marinara, this is a favorite way to add flavor and nutrition to a bowl of pasta. Think of it as pesto, with the added bonus of avocado in the mix!
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to make this recipe to share with your family.
Avocado: Adding fresh (or frozen) avocado adds creaminess and beneficial fats.Baby spinach: This adds the bright green flavor and plenty of nutrients, including iron and fiber.Fresh basil or parsley: I have made it with both (according to what was available at my store) and they both work well. I have a slight preference for the flavor of basil, but see what you like.Parmesan: This cheese adds flavor and saltiness, which is a pleasant addition.Olive oil: I use extra-virgin olive oil to help blend the sauce smoothly.Lemon juice: This brightens the flavor of the sauce with some refreshing acidity.Pasta: You can use the sauce on any pasta prepared according to the package directions.
TIP: You can optionally add roasted unsalted sunflower seeds to give this a sort of a pesto flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is an overview of how to make this recipe so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the end of the post for the full how-to and timing.
How to Store
Store sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in a zip-top freezer bag, with as much air removed as possible, for up to 3 months. You can also portion sauce into an ice cube tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for long-term storage in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature to use. Or simply add a frozen sauce cube to a hot bowl of pasta and stir to thaw.
Best Tips for Success
You can also use this sauce on Pesto Pizza, Pizza Rolls, or with any grain such as quinoa.Dairy-free: Omit the Parmesan and top with a little nutritional yeast, if desired.Use the seeds or leave them out, according to your preference.Start with a small amount of the sauce and add more to your liking. (You may have enough sauce to make two meals!)Check out my Spinach Pesto and Kale Pesto for more green sauce options.Add a clove of fresh garlic of you like the taste of garlic in pesto.
I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe, so please rate and review it below.
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