Can you make Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, but ensure to mix in some fresh olive oil before serving to retain texture.

What pasta works best for this salad?

While any pasta works, I recommend using rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. These shapes hold onto the pesto nicely, enhancing every bite.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It maintains the richness while keeping the salad vegan-friendly.

How can I adjust the flavors of the pesto?

Feel free to add more or less garlic or adjust the salt and pepper according to your tastes. You can also add lemon juice for additional brightness.

What can I serve this salad with?

This Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, seafood, or can be served simply with some crusty bread. It’s also great on its own!

Make Your Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 Avocados
1 cup Fresh basil
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup Pine nuts
2 cloves Garlic
1/4 cup Olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Cherry tomatoes, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool.
Combine in a food processor the ripe avocados, fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. Add the garlic cloves and drizzle in the olive oil while blending until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix together the cooled pasta and the freshly prepared avocado pesto in a large mixing bowl. Optionally, fold in halved cherry tomatoes.
Serve immediately for the freshest taste or store in the refrigerator if preparing ahead.

Notes

For best flavor, serve fresh and enjoy cold. You can replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

Author: carter_emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg