Save This California Avocado Pasta captures the heart of West Coast freshness in a creamy, herb-scented noodle bowl. Ripe avocados make the sauce rich without feeling heavy, while a zesty burst of lemon and the bold crunch of everything bagel seasoning give it a unique twist that never fails to impress even the pickiest eaters.
The bright flavors and creamy texture first hooked me during a family picnic on the beach. From then on this pasta became our go-to whenever avocados showed up in the fruit bowl.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti or linguine: Good quality pasta gives you the best texture Try whole wheat or gluten-free if needed
- Kosher salt: for pasta water Helps season the noodles as they cook and really wakes up the flavors
- California avocados: Choose ones that yield gently to pressure but are not mushy for the silkiest sauce
- Fresh lemon juice: Adds tang to balance the richness of the avocado Look for bright yellow lemons with smooth skin
- Garlic: Mincing fresh cloves brings just the right hit of bite
- Extra virgin olive oil: Pick the freshest you can for peppery flavor and luxe mouthfeel
- Greek yogurt or sour cream: Gives slight tang and makes the sauce creamy without heaviness Full fat makes it extra indulgent
- Fresh basil leaves: For fresh herbal brightness Choose unblemished deep green leaves
- Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings for depth and lift Crack your pepper just before mixing for best flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved for juicy bursts of sweet acidity Choose firm and colorful ones
- Red onion: Diced finely for sharp contrast and crunch Look for vibrant purple skins and no soft spots
- Everything bagel seasoning: The magic spark that brings texture garlic sesame and poppy seed flavor
- Toasted pine nuts: Optional but delicious for buttery crunch Buy from a store with good turnover and toast lightly for extra flavor
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds an extra pop of green and herbal aroma
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil a large pot of water and add a generous spoonful of kosher salt Once boiling cook your spaghetti or linguine according to package directions for al dente Usually this is about 8 to 10 minutes Taste a strand to check for a slight chew Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining
- Make the Avocado Sauce:
- While the pasta is cooking add ripe avocado flesh lemon juice minced garlic olive oil Greek yogurt fresh basil salt and pepper to a food processor or blender Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy If your blender needs help add a splash of the reserved pasta water to get things moving
- Adjust the Sauce:
- Taste the avocado sauce with a clean spoon Sometimes a dash more lemon or salt really brightens it Adjust until it tastes vibrant and balanced If the sauce is too thick blend in a little extra pasta water to reach a silky consistency
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Transfer the drained pasta back into the pot while still warm Immediately pour the creamy avocado sauce over the noodles Toss vigorously so every strand is coated Add a few extra tablespoons of reserved water if the sauce seems stiff It should glide smoothly over the pasta without feeling gluey
- Finish and Top:
- Divide the sauced pasta between warm plates or bowls Sprinkle each serving with cherry tomato halves red onion everything bagel seasoning and toasted pine nuts if using Add fresh basil just before serving for a burst of aroma and color
- Serve Right Away:
- This dish is at its best when enjoyed immediately so dig in while it is creamy and fresh
Save My favorite part is watching the avocado sauce swirl bright green over hot pasta My little one always races to sprinkle on the everything seasoning himself and it has become a cheerful family competition
Storage Tips
Store leftover avocado pasta tightly covered in the fridge for up to one day The sauce may darken but a squeeze of lemon and a good toss usually revives it To refresh stir in a splash of extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving Eat leftovers cold or gently warmed over low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles
Ingredient Substitutions
Replace Greek yogurt or sour cream with unsweetened plant yogurt or leave out entirely for a vegan option Extra olive oil or a spoonful of tahini adds creaminess Gluten free pasta works perfectly here Hold the pine nuts for nut free needs or swap with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta as a main with a crisp green salad or top with grilled veggies for more substance For a heartier meal add sauteed shrimp or roasted chicken Picnics are more fun with a cold leftover serving and a wedge of lemon on the side
Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations
California avocados shine from early spring to summer so make this dish when local fruit is abundant If basil is pricier swap with mint or Italian parsley Everything bagel seasoning is now popular everywhere but you can make your own from pantry seeds and dried spices The fusion of fresh American produce and classic Italian technique makes this recipe so special
Recipe Notes
Use just ripe avocados for the smoothest sauce Reserve plenty of pasta water for perfect consistency Enjoy immediately to get the brightest flavor and color
Success Stories
Friends have told me they served this dish at summer gatherings and it was gone in minutes Some add grilled halloumi cheese for a fun salty hit Kids love swirling in the sauce and making cheese faces with the toppings
Freezer Meal Conversion
Avocado sauce does not freeze well because it browns and loses texture Instead prep all toppings ahead and freeze plain cooked pasta When ready blend a fresh avocado sauce and toss with reheated noodles
Save With these tricks your avocado pasta will always be fresh vibrant and bursting with personality
Cooking Questions
- → How can I keep the avocado sauce green?
Use fresh lemon juice in the sauce and serve immediately to help prevent browning.
- → Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta such as penne, fettuccine, or gluten-free varieties work well with this avocado-based sauce.
- → Is everything bagel seasoning essential?
It adds crunch and bold flavor, but you can substitute a mix of sesame, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and onion.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Swap Greek yogurt for plant-based yogurt or add extra olive oil for a dairy-free, creamy texture.
- → Can I add extra protein?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added on top for a heartier meal.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Toss with a splash of lemon juice before reheating.