Save to Pins Imagine a pasta dish that's as vibrant and refreshing as it is creamy and satisfying. This Smashed Avocado Pasta brings together the velvety richness of perfectly ripe avocados with the bright zing of fresh lime and just enough heat from chili flakes to keep things interesting. It's a modern fusion creation that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary — ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet indulgent.
Save to Pins The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The warm pasta gently melts the mashed avocado, creating an incredibly silky sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of spaghetti or linguine. The lime zest and juice provide a bright, citrusy counterpoint that cuts through the richness, while the garlic and chili flakes add layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) spaghetti or linguine
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 lime, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or cilantro leaves (optional)
- Grated Parmesan or vegan alternative (optional)
- Additional lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, halve and pit the avocados. Scoop the flesh into a large bowl and mash until mostly smooth.
- Step 3
- Add lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado. Mix well to combine.
- Step 4
- Add the drained pasta to the avocado mixture while still warm. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until a creamy sauce forms.
- Step 5
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, topped with fresh herbs, extra chili flakes, Parmesan, and lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The secret to the perfect sauce is adding the warm pasta directly to the mashed avocado mixture — the residual heat helps create that irresistibly creamy texture without any additional dairy. Don't forget to reserve that pasta water before draining; it's the key to achieving a silky, emulsified sauce that coats every strand beautifully.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a richer sauce, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche. Swap chili flakes for fresh chopped chili if you prefer more intense heat. Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free, and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative for a completely vegan version.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this vibrant pasta immediately while still warm, allowing the creamy avocado sauce to shine. A final sprinkle of fresh basil or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness, while extra chili flakes provide a visual and flavorful kick. Don't forget those lime wedges on the side — a final squeeze just before eating brightens all the flavors.
Save to Pins Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive vegetarian dish to serve guests, this Smashed Avocado Pasta delivers on all fronts. It's a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create something truly extraordinary — a bowl of pasta that feels indulgent yet nourishing, familiar yet excitingly different.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the pasta is warm and the avocado sauce is at its creamiest. The avocado may oxidize and discolor if stored too long. If you need to prep ahead, mash the avocado mixture just before cooking the pasta to maintain the vibrant green color.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti or linguine are ideal choices as their long strands hold the creamy avocado sauce beautifully. However, fusilli, penne, or other short pasta shapes work well too—the sauce clings to the textured surfaces. For a gluten-free version, use your preferred gluten-free pasta.
- → How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
The lime juice in the mixture helps slow oxidation, but serving immediately is key. Tossing the hot pasta right into the mashed avocado creates the creamiest sauce. If you must wait, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado mixture to minimize air exposure.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely. Start with 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes and taste after combining. Add more if you enjoy heat, or reduce the amount for a milder version. Fresh chopped jalapeño or serrano can substitute for dried flakes—use sparingly as fresh peppers pack more punch.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep components separately. Cook and cool the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Store the mashed avocado mixture in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface. Combine just before eating and add a splash of warm water to revive the sauce.
- → What protein additions work well?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or pan-seared tofu complement the creamy avocado beautifully. Crispy bacon or pancetta adds a salty contrast. For a vegetarian boost, stir in white beans or chickpeas. Keep the protein simple to let the vibrant avocado-lime flavors shine.