Creamy Avocado and Spinach Pasta

Name: Creamy Avocado and Spinach Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta of choice (linguine or fettuccine works well); 2 ripe avocados; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or red pepper flakes

Highlighted under: Nutritious & Fresh Meals

I love making this Creamy Avocado and Spinach Pasta on busy weeknights. It comes together in just a few minutes, and the vibrant green color makes it feel fresh and delightful. The creamy avocado sauce blends beautifully with the spinach, creating a luxurious texture that coats the pasta perfectly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while indulging in comfort food, making it a family favorite in our home.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:21:28.559Z

When I first tried my hand at this recipe, I was skeptical about whether avocados could create a sauce rich enough for pasta. However, blending ripe avocados with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil transformed them into a creamy dream. I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavor developed when tossed with sautéed spinach, creating a luscious dish that was both wholesome and satisfying.

Each time I make this pasta, I tweak it with different herbs or toppings. Recently, I added some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick and toasted pine nuts for crunch. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for using up leftover greens or herbs, making it an excellent choice for clean-out-the-fridge meal planning.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado sauce that’s rich yet healthy
Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any weeknight
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins

The Magic of Avocado

Avocados are not only creamy and delicious, but they also bring a wealth of nutrients to this dish. Rich in healthy fats, avocados help create that luxurious sauce while providing a good source of vitamins E and K, as well as beneficial fiber. When selecting avocados, choose ripe ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure, ensuring they will blend smoothly into the sauce without any lumps.

To maintain the vibrant green color of your avocado sauce, try to blend the ingredients as soon as possible after cutting the avocados. Delaying this can lead to oxidation, which dulls the color. Additionally, the lemon juice helps prevent this browning and contributes a fresh zing that complements the creamy texture beautifully.

Spinach: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Incorporating fresh spinach into the sauce not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds a beautiful green hue. For this recipe, using fresh spinach leaves is ideal, as they blend smoothly and retain their vibrant color. If you only have frozen spinach, make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a watery sauce.

Blending the spinach with the other ingredients helps to break down its fibers, allowing you to enjoy its nutrients without the texture of raw spinach. This is a great way to introduce greens to picky eaters, as the flavor is subtle yet satisfying. I often suggest using baby spinach for a sweeter taste and smoother finish.

Customizing Your Pasta Dish

One of the best features of this creamy avocado and spinach pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or steamed broccoli. If you're looking for added protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would complement the flavors beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to suit your add-ins.

To make this dish gluten-free, choose your preferred gluten-free pasta option. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to achieve that perfect al dente texture. This makes the dish suitable for various dietary preferences while still delivering a rich, creamy experience.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta of choice (linguine or fettuccine works well)
2 ripe avocados
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or red pepper flakes

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a blender, combine the avocados, spinach, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the avocado sauce until well coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, topped with optional cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, or red pepper flakes.

Pro Tips

For an even creamier texture, use slightly overripe avocados. This dish is also delicious chilled as a salad!

Storage and Reheating

This creamy avocado and spinach pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers for up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the sauce, as it may thicken when chilled. Gently heat in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.

If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the sauce and pasta separately to maintain the best texture. The sauce can also be frozen for up to one month. To revive it, blend it again with a bit of pasta water upon defrosting for a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, plate the pasta and drizzle with an extra tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal light and refreshing while balancing the richness of the pasta.

If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This is a great way to round out the meal with added nutrients and a hint of umami, making it a delightful option for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses avocados and no dairy.

→ How can I make this pasta gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may darken but is still good to eat.

→ Can I freeze the avocado sauce?

It's not recommended to freeze the avocado sauce as it may change the texture. Make it fresh for the best results.