Vegan Avocado Lime Pasta

There's something magical about the combination of creamy avocados and zesty lime that creates an instantly refreshing flavor profile. This Vegan Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta transforms these simple ingredients into a luxuriously silky sauce that clings beautifully to al dente pasta. The bright green sauce studded with vibrant red cherry tomatoes not only delivers on visual appeal but offers a perfect balance of rich creaminess, tangy citrus, and sweet bursts of tomato in every bite.

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This dish originated in my kitchen during a hot summer evening when I wanted something substantial but not heavy. The no-cook sauce keeps your kitchen cool while still delivering a meal that feels indulgent. The rich, buttery avocados create such a luxurious mouthfeel that even dedicated cheese lovers won't miss the dairy. It's become a favorite with friends who are surprised by how satisfying a plant-based pasta dish can be.

Ingredients

• 350 g dried spaghetti or linguine (gluten-free if desired)
• Salt, for pasta water
• 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• 1 large lime, juiced (about 2–3 tbsp)
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
• 250 g cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Make the sauce

While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, basil, plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more milk or reserved pasta water to loosen.

Combine elements

In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained pasta with the avocado-lime sauce until well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a silky texture.

Add tomatoes

Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts and extra basil leaves.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

The key to this dish is using perfectly ripe avocados—they should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be overly soft. To prevent the sauce from browning, be sure to use the lime juice immediately after cutting the avocados. If you're meal prepping, consider making extra sauce and storing it separately with plastic wrap pressed directly onto its surface to minimize oxidation.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile base recipe welcomes many variations. For extra protein, add chickpeas or white beans as suggested in the original recipe. Spiralized zucchini can replace half or all of the pasta for a lower-carb option. For a spicier version, increase the chili flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce. If you enjoy a cheesy flavor, incorporate a tablespoon of nutritional yeast into the avocado sauce before blending.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this vibrant pasta as a main dish with a simple side salad of arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a more substantial meal, pair it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. As suggested in the recipe notes, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent wine pairing, or enjoy it with sparkling water infused with lime for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

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This Vegan Creamy Avocado Lime Pasta has become a staple in my kitchen for those nights when I need something quick but refuse to compromise on flavor or nutrition. The way the creamy sauce coats each strand of pasta creates a dish that feels indulgent while still being light enough to enjoy on a summer evening. Whether you're a committed plant-based eater or simply looking to incorporate more meat-free meals into your routine, this vibrant pasta is sure to become a favorite that you'll return to again and again.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve a creamy sauce consistency?

Blend ripe avocados with lime juice, olive oil, and plant-based milk until smooth. Add reserved pasta water gradually to reach a silky texture.

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?

Yes, gluten-free spaghetti or linguine can be used without affecting the creamy texture of the sauce.

→ What adds the bright flavor to this pasta?

Fresh lime juice combined with basil and cherry tomatoes creates a vibrant, refreshing flavor balance.

→ Are there any suggested toppings to enhance texture?

Toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves add crunch and aroma, complementing the creamy sauce.

→ How can I make this dish richer in protein?

Adding cooked chickpeas or white beans boosts protein while keeping the dish plant-based.