Creamy Avocado Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Spring, Summer
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:
  • 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
    • For the Avocado Dressing:
  • 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tbsp water (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
    Cook the Pasta
  1. 1
    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.
    2. Prepare the Dressing
  2. 2
    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.
    3. Assemble the Salad
  3. 3
    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.
    4. Let it Rest
  4. 4
    Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes for the flavors to meld together. Garnish with feta cheese if desired.
    5. Serve and Enjoy
  5. 5
    Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled pasta salad experience.
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.
Keywords: healthy, quick, easy, summer, vegetarian
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/creamy-avocado-pasta-salad-with-cherry-tomatoes/