ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients for Avocado Pasta Salad
To create this creamy, fresh, and flavor-packed avocado pasta salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice: rotini, fusilli, or penne work best)
- 2 ripe avocados, mashed
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
How to Make Avocado Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Set the pasta aside to drain completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Dressing
While the pasta is cooling, prepare the creamy avocado dressing. In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocados until smooth and creamy. You can use a fork or a potato masher for this step.
Once mashed, add the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the top and toss everything together until well-coated. Make sure the pasta is fully covered with the creamy avocado dressing.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top your avocado pasta salad with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor. If you like, you can also add a bit of feta cheese for extra creaminess and a savory touch.
Variations and Tips for the Perfect Avocado Pasta Salad
- Add Protein: To make this salad more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.
- Swap Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Red bell peppers, corn, or even spinach would make a great addition to this salad.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Use Greek Yogurt: For a tangier dressing, you can swap some of the avocado with Greek yogurt, which will add a creamy texture and a slight tang that complements the flavor of the avocado.
- Make it Dairy-Free: To keep this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Why Avocado Pasta Salad is So Good for You
This salad is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a nutritious choice. Here’s why it’s a great addition to your meal rotation:
- Avocados are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can help support heart health. They also provide a good amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Fresh Vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and hydration, making this salad a great way to get in your daily dose of veggies.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: If you choose whole wheat pasta, you’ll get added fiber and nutrients to help keep you full and satisfied for longer.
Serving Suggestions
Avocado pasta salad can stand on its own as a light lunch or side dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals:
- Grilled meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal.
- Sandwiches: This pasta salad is a perfect side for turkey, chicken, or veggie sandwiches.
- Barbecues: Bring it to your next BBQ or picnic for a refreshing alternative to traditional coleslaw or potato salad.
- Wraps: Add a scoop of this pasta salad into a wrap for a fun, portable lunch.
Conclusion
This Avocado Pasta Salad is the epitome of a creamy, satisfying, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing a meal for your family, or just craving something fresh, this salad delivers on all fronts. With the richness of the avocado and the crunch of fresh vegetables, every bite is bursting with flavor and texture. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can customize it to suit your tastes.
So, gather your ingredients and try making this avocado pasta salad today. It’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection, loved by everyone who tries it!
ADVERTISEMENT
