Here’s a fresh, creamy, and flavorful Avocado Pasta Salad recipe that’s perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or summer gathering! 🥑🍝
Avocado Pasta Salad
Servings: 4-6 | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup sweet corn (canned, fresh, or frozen)
- ½ cup black beans (optional)
- ¼ cup feta or cotija cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Avocado Dressing:
- 1 large ripe avocado
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta 🍝: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Make the Dressing 🥑: In a blender or food processor, blend avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, and cumin until smooth. Add water as needed to reach a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Assemble the Salad 🥗: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, corn, black beans (if using), and diced avocado.
- Toss & Serve 🌿: Pour the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with feta or cotija cheese and fresh cilantro or parsley.
- Chill or Serve Immediately ❄️: Serve right away or refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Tips & Variations:
- Make It Protein-Packed 💪: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan Version 🌱: Use dairy-free yogurt or replace it with extra olive oil and lime juice. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- Add a Crunch 🥜: Toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds, or crushed tortilla chips.
- Make It Spicier 🌶️: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño.
This creamy, fresh, and zesty avocado pasta salad is perfect for warm days and easy meals!
