Avocado Pasta Salad
This creamy avocado pasta salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for warm-weather lunches, picnics, or as a vibrant side at your next barbecue. The ripe avocado creates a naturally creamy dressing that’s both healthy and indulgent, while fresh vegetables and herbs add crunch and brightness. It’s easy to customize and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
½ cucumber, diced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
Optional: crumbled feta cheese or diced grilled chicken for extra protein
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2️⃣ Make the avocado dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time to reach your desired consistency.
3️⃣ Combine the salad. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn, and cucumber. Pour the avocado dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
4️⃣ Add herbs and extras. Stir in chopped cilantro or parsley and, if using, sprinkle in crumbled feta or add cooked chicken for more protein.
5️⃣ Serve. Chill for 15–30 minutes for best flavor or serve immediately. Garnish with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon just before serving.
Notes
This salad is best enjoyed fresh due to the avocado, but if you need to store it, press plastic wrap directly on the surface of the salad to reduce browning. You can easily swap in other veggies like bell peppers, olives, or spinach. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used to fit your dietary needs.
Find it online: https://richspoon.com/avocado-pasta-salad/