Save Creamy Avocado Pesto Mac is a vibrant twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring a luscious avocado and basil pesto sauce tossed with tender pasta for a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious meal. This fusion dish combines the heartiness of an American favorite with the fresh, aromatic profiles of Italian pesto.
Save This recipe is ideal for weeknights when you want something comforting yet wholesome. The secret lies in the silky smooth sauce made by blending ripe avocados with fresh basil and garlic, creating a coating that is as indulgent as it is fresh.
Ingredients
- 350 g (12 oz) macaroni or short pasta of choice
- 1 tsp salt (for pasta water)
- 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
- 40 g (1 cup, loosely packed) fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) extra virgin olive oil
- 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk (dairy or unsweetened plant milk)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Extra grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and cracked black pepper for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- 2. Prepare the Sauce
- While pasta cooks, combine avocados, basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan, lemon juice, milk, salt, and black pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a splash more milk if needed to reach a silky sauce consistency.
- 3. Combine
- Return drained pasta to the pot. Pour in the avocado pesto sauce and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce as needed.
- 4. Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, basil, and black pepper if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a food processor or blender is essential to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, don't forget to use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency before serving.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk. You can also add cherry tomatoes, roasted pine nuts, or sautéed spinach for extra flavor and texture. For gluten-free needs, simply use certified gluten-free pasta.
Serviervorschläge
This Creamy Avocado Pesto Mac is best enjoyed fresh, as the avocado sauce may darken over time. Serve it warm with a generous garnish of Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a restaurant-quality meal.
Save Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner, this Creamy Avocado Pesto Mac offers a delightful balance of nutrition and flavor that the whole family will enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the avocado pesto sauce up to 2 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to minimize browning. Cook the pasta just before serving and combine them together.
- → How do I prevent the avocado sauce from turning brown?
The lemon juice in the pesto helps slow oxidation. For extra protection, press plastic wrap directly onto the sauce surface when storing. Serve immediately after combining with pasta for the best color and flavor.
- → What can I add for more protein?
Consider adding grilled chicken, crispy bacon, roasted chickpeas, or sautéed white beans to boost protein content. Pine nuts and toasted breadcrumbs also add texture and nutritional value.
- → Is this suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! Simply replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast and use unsweetened plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. The result is equally creamy and flavorful while remaining completely plant-based.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Any short pasta works well—penne, fusilli, farfalle, or shells all hold the creamy pesto sauce beautifully. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti, which doesn't coat as effectively.
- → What if my pesto is too thick?
Add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency. You can also add more milk gradually. The sauce should be silky and coat the pasta without being runny.