If you’ve got ripe avocados and a craving for something creamy, zesty, and beyond easy—this one’s for you. My Creamy Avocado Pasta with Lime and Cilantro is part comfort food, part sunshine on a plate. It comes together in minutes and feels like a little weeknight escape (even if the kids are yelling in the background). Trust me, once you try this luscious green sauce, you’ll want to slather it on everything!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This is one of those magical recipes that checks all the boxes: fast, fresh, full of flavor, and totally customizable. It’s like guacamole met pasta and decided to throw a little party. It’s bright, creamy, and it just feels good to eat.
- Quick & easy—ready in under 20 minutes!
- No cooking required for the sauce (hello, food processor magic!).
- Perfect for weeknights or light entertaining.
- 100% plant-based and dairy-free (but no one will notice).
- It’s a great use for ripe avocados you need to use up now.
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti or linguine work beautifully)
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tbsp water to loosen the sauce, if needed
Pro Tips
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Fresh lime juice is key—bottled just won’t give the same brightness.
- Use very ripe avocados for the smoothest sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, make the avocado sauce. In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the avocados, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until silky smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little water or reserved pasta water to help it blend.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot (off heat), then pour the avocado sauce over the noodles. Toss to coat, loosening with a splash of pasta water if needed until it’s glossy and well combined.
- Serve immediately with extra cilantro and a wedge of lime if you like. (Optional: top with cherry tomatoes, grilled shrimp, or toasted pine nuts for something special!)
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Don’t over-blend—the sauce should be smooth but not whipped.
- Serve immediately after tossing—avocado doesn’t hold its color forever.
- If making ahead, store sauce separately and toss right before serving.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp to turn it into a heartier main.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Swap lime for lemon for a different citrus twist.
- Add a handful of spinach or arugula to the sauce for extra greens.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes or corn kernels for extra texture and color.
- Top with cotija cheese or feta if dairy isn’t an issue.
- Make it spicy with jalapeño blended into the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different herb if I don’t like cilantro?
Absolutely! Basil or parsley are great swaps. Basil will give it more of a pesto vibe, but it’s delicious either way.
How long does the avocado sauce last?
It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store the sauce (with plastic wrap directly on the surface) in the fridge for up to 1 day. It may darken slightly but will still taste great.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Chickpea or lentil pasta works wonderfully for extra protein too.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tbsp water or reserved pasta water
Instructions:
- Cook pasta until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup water and drain.
- Blend avocados, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Toss pasta with sauce and loosen with pasta water as needed.
- Serve immediately with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
If you try this Creamy Avocado Pasta, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, tag me @thekitchensaid on Instagram, or share it with someone who could use a quick, tasty dinner idea. Let’s keep dinnertime delicious and stress-free together! 💚🍝
