Avocado Pesto Pasta

By MooK

You can also make this by substituting in fresh cilantro for the basil, and lime juice for the lemon juice.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. pasta or noodles (tagliatelle)
• 1 cup packed fresh basil, reserve some leaves for garnish
• 1 avocado, pitted and peeled
• 2 tsp. lemon juice
• 3-4 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp. kosher salt (or more or less to taste)
• pinch of freshly ground black pepper
• (optional garnish) extra toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan

Preparation

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta or noodles, and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, make the pesto by combining basil, avocado, lemon juice, garlic, and oil in a food processor. Process until smooth. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Immediately after the pasta or noodles are drained, top with the pesto and gently toss until well-coated. Divide pasta among serving bowls and top with toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan.

This is great served with grilled shrimp or chicken on top as well.