This Avocado Pasta Salad is a fresh, creamy, and healthy dish perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a quick lunch. Packed with vibrant vegetables, flavorful avocado dressing, and al dente pasta, it’s a wholesome meal everyone will love.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
3 cups cooked pasta (bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
For the Dressing:
1 avocado
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt for a dairy-free option)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for pasta)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, olive oil, lime juice, Greek yogurt, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, and parsley.
Gently fold in the avocado slices.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Pour the avocado dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes for a cooler, refreshing salad.
Tips for Success
Use Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that are soft but not mushy for the best creamy texture.
Customize the Veggies: Add cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinach for extra crunch and color.
Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Make Ahead: Keep the dressing and salad components separate until ready to serve to prevent the avocado from browning.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 6g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
This Avocado Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of creamy avocado, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. Easy to customize and packed with nutrients, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion. Serve it as a side dish or a standalone meal and enjoy its refreshing flavors!
Enjoy!