Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe That Will Steal the Show at Any Gathering
Let me tell you, this Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad is a game-changer. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, zesty, and fresh flavors that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just need a quick side dish for dinner, this salad is your new best friend. The best part? It’s so simple to make, and it feels like a little taste of sunshine in every bite!
Last week, I whipped this up for a potluck, and let me just say, it was the first dish to disappear. I caught one of my neighbors scraping the bowl clean and asking if there was more! It’s now my go-to for any casual get-together, and I know it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The secret to this avocado pasta salad is its creamy avocado dressing, which coats every piece of pasta in a silky, luscious layer of flavor. The dressing is made with ripe avocados, a hint of garlic, lemon juice, and a splash of olive oil, giving it the perfect balance of richness and tanginess. Add in crisp veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for crunch and brightness, and you’ve got a dish that checks all the boxes.
Your Grocery List
- 8 ounces of your favorite short pasta (like rotini, bowties, or penne)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Mastering the Perfect Creamy Avocado Dressing
The key to the dressing is to use perfectly ripe avocados. You’ll know they’re ready when they give just a little under gentle pressure. Blend the avocados with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until you get a smooth and creamy texture. If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Techniques for a Pasta Salad That’s Never Bland
To prevent your salad from being soggy, rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. This helps the dressing stick better and keeps the salad fresh for longer. Tossing the dressing with the pasta while it’s slightly warm ensures every piece is coated in that creamy goodness!
Make It Even Better
Want to add some protein? Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a heartier version. You can also switch up the veggies based on what’s in season – think roasted bell peppers, corn, or even arugula. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. And don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning; a little extra lemon juice or salt can make all the difference.
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Keep in mind that avocado can oxidize and darken slightly, so press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the salad surface to minimize browning. A quick stir before serving will freshen it right up!
Additional Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition Info: About 350 calories per serving
Fun Fact: Did you know avocados are actually classified as berries? This recipe is basically an edible love letter to avocados, the creamiest, dreamiest berry out there.
Pairing Tips: Serve this salad with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc and finish off the meal with a fresh fruit tart for dessert. It’s the perfect combination for a light and breezy dinner party.
Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Blender or food processor
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
Ingredients
- 8 ounces short pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic minced
- To taste salt and pepper
- Optional fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to thin the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Pour the avocado dressing over the top and toss until everything is well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
