Smashed Avocado Pasta (Printable Version)

Vibrant pasta with mashed avocado, fresh lime, and chili flakes. Creamy, zesty, and ready in just 20 minutes.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 7 oz spaghetti or linguine
02 - 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

→ Avocado Mixture

03 - 2 ripe avocados
04 - 1 lime, juiced and zested
05 - 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1 garlic clove, finely minced
07 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (plus more for garnish)
08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

09 - Fresh basil or cilantro leaves (optional)
10 - Grated Parmesan or vegan alternative (optional)
11 - Additional lime wedges

# Steps:

01 - 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.
02 - While the pasta cooks, halve and pit the avocados. Scoop the flesh into a large bowl and mash until mostly smooth.
03 - Add lime juice and zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the mashed avocado. Mix well to combine.
04 - 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.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, topped with fresh herbs, extra chili flakes, Parmesan, and lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Incredibly creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or butter.
  • A perfect balance of zesty lime and a subtle warmth from chili flakes.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets.
02 -
  • Always reserve some pasta water; the starch helps the avocado oil and lime juice emulsify into a silky sauce.
  • Add the pasta to the sauce while it is still hot to help the flavors meld together perfectly.
  • Check for ripeness: the avocados should give slightly to gentle pressure to ensure they mash easily.
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