Cold Avocado Pasta with Lemon & Herbs

This Cold Avocado Pasta with Lemon & Herbs is a refreshing, creamy, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for warm weather or when you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal. Made with ripe avocados, zesty lemon juice, and a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, it delivers vibrant flavor with minimal effort. The pasta is served cold, making it an ideal make-ahead lunch or picnic item.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes

• Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients

• Naturally vegan and can be made gluten-free

• A perfect balance of creaminess and zesty brightness

• Ideal for hot weather or as a make-ahead meal

• Kid-friendly and lunchbox-approved

• Requires no cooking beyond boiling pasta

• Great for meal prep and stays fresh when chilled

• Customizable with your favorite herbs and veggies

• A delicious way to use ripe avocados

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)

• Ripe avocados

• Fresh lemon juice

• Garlic

• Olive oil

• Fresh basil

• Fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper

• Optional toppings: cherry tomatoes, arugula, red pepper flakes, or vegan parmesan

directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. In a food processor or blender, combine avocados, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the avocado herb sauce until evenly coated.

4. Add optional toppings such as halved cherry tomatoes or a handful of arugula for extra flavor and texture.

5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version

• Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein

• Include diced cucumber or shredded carrots for crunch

• Swap herbs like cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile

• Top with sunflower seeds or pine nuts for added texture

• Add a splash of balsamic glaze for depth

• Incorporate spinach or kale into the sauce for more greens

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since the avocado may brown slightly over time, add a thin layer of lemon juice before sealing. This pasta is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli work best as they hold the sauce well, but spaghetti can also be used.

Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to make the sauce the same day to prevent browning. If making ahead, store it with a layer of lemon juice and plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Just store the pasta and sauce separately and mix them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh are excellent vegan protein options.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Use plenty of lemon juice and keep the dish tightly sealed in the refrigerator. You can also place plastic wrap directly on the surface.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor, but dried can be used in smaller quantities if needed.

What can I use instead of olive oil?

Avocado oil or a small amount of water can be used to keep the sauce smooth without olive oil.

Is this pasta served cold or warm?

It is meant to be served cold or at room temperature for optimal taste and texture.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

For a non-vegan option, parmesan or feta cheese works well. Otherwise, use vegan cheese alternatives.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed within 2 days. The sauce may discolor slightly but will still be safe to eat if stored properly.

Conclusion

Cold Avocado Pasta with Lemon & Herbs is a flavorful, creamy, and refreshing meal that brings together the richness of avocado with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for picnics, quick lunches, or healthy dinners, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.