Looking for a nutritious yet delicious pasta salad? This creamy avocado pasta salad with cherry tomatoes is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors. With a rich avocado-based dressing and the burst of sweetness from cherry tomatoes, this dish is both satisfying and light. Whether you need a quick lunch, a side dish for a BBQ, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this pasta salad is an excellent choice.
In this post, we’ll cover everything from ingredient selection and preparation steps to variations, expert tips, and serving suggestions. Get ready to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with heart-healthy avocado, fresh cherry tomatoes, and fiber-rich pasta.
- Versatile – Great as a main dish or a side for potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep.
- Dairy-Free Option – Can be easily adapted for a vegan diet.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy avocado pasta salad with cherry tomatoes:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work best)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- ½ cup feta cheese (optional, can be replaced with dairy-free cheese for a vegan version)
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional for added crunch and flavor)
For the Creamy Avocado Dressing:
- 2 ripe avocados
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons water (adjust as needed for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a food processor or blender, combine the avocados, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Mix in Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and basil.
- Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in feta cheese and bacon if using.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15-30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Use ripe avocados – They should be soft but not mushy.
- Chill before serving – Letting the salad rest enhances the flavors.
- Choose the right pasta – Rotini and fusilli hold the dressing well.
- Adjust consistency – If the dressing is too thick, add more water or olive oil.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds.
- Different Herbs: Try cilantro or parsley instead of basil for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace feta cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a light lunch on its own.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Bring to potlucks or BBQs as a refreshing side dish.
- Enjoy as part of your meal prep – store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! However, since avocados brown quickly, it’s best to store the dressing separately and mix just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the dressing thickens, stir in a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta all work well in this recipe.
Final Thoughts
This creamy avocado pasta salad with cherry tomatoes is a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal, a side dish, or a meal prep option, it’s sure to be a hit!
Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Description
This creamy avocado pasta salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish featuring ripe avocados, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer, this easy-to-make salad is packed with healthy fats and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal choice for lunch, dinner, or potlucks.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
For the Avocado Dressing:
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the Dressing
-
In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, Greek yogurt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Assemble the Salad
-
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Let it Rest
-
Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together. Garnish with feta cheese if desired.
Serve and Enjoy
-
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled pasta salad experience.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 485.91kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25.46g40%
- Saturated Fat 5.08g26%
- Cholesterol 10.73mg4%
- Sodium 274.49mg12%
- Potassium 752.8mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 55.31g19%
- Dietary Fiber 9.31g38%
- Sugars 4.36g
- Protein 12.63g26%
- Vitamin A 48.48 IU
- Vitamin C 19.38 mg
- Calcium 94.48 mg
- Iron 1.6 mg
- Vitamin D 0.03 IU
- Vitamin E 3.4 IU
- Vitamin K 35.46 mcg
- Thiamin 0.15 mg
- Riboflavin 0.25 mg
- Niacin 3.1 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.43 mg
- Folate 104.38 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.15 mcg
- Phosphorus 206.95 mg
- Magnesium 68.65 mg
- Zinc 1.82 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
