Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Avocado Basil Pesto
This vibrant and creamy pasta dish combines wholesome whole wheat spaghetti with a nutrient-packed avocado basil pesto, creating a satisfying and light dinner option that’s perfect for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike. The rich, buttery texture of avocado pairs wonderfully with the peppery freshness of basil and the crunch of walnuts, all brought together with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a dash of lemon for brightness.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Spaghetti (organic) | 225 grams |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 2 cups |
| Ripe Avocado (pulped) | 1/2 cup |
| Walnuts (roughly chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, Serves 3)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Sodium | 230 mg |
| Vitamin A | 12% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 25% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 10% of Daily Value |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 3
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the water.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the whole wheat spaghetti. Cook for about 7-8 minutes or as per the instructions on the package, until the pasta is al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, but be sure to retain a bit of the cooking water in a separate bowl. This water will help with the pesto and ensure the pasta stays moist.
-
Prepare the Avocado Basil Pesto:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the basil leaves, pulped avocado, walnuts, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Pulse for 4-5 seconds to break down the ingredients, then continue blending until the mixture becomes a smooth paste. If the pesto appears too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, if needed.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- In a large serving bowl or platter, toss the cooked spaghetti with the freshly made avocado basil pesto. Add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to help coat the spaghetti evenly and prevent it from drying out.
- Give everything a good toss to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy pesto.
-
Serve and Garnish:
- Garnish your dish with a sprig of fresh basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
- Optional: For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the top. This is especially delicious if you prefer a cheesy twist to the pesto.
-
Pair with Complementary Dishes:
- This wholesome pasta pairs wonderfully with a light, flavorful soup like Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Carrot Soup or a refreshing Chickpea Orange Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. Together, they make for a balanced and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Tips for the Best Pesto:
- Avocado Ripeness: Make sure your avocado is ripe to ensure a smooth, creamy pesto. Overripe avocados can make the pesto too mushy, while underripe ones can be hard to blend.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a little more pasta water or a splash of extra olive oil to thin it out.
- Add Spice: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle some chili powder over the finished dish.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to swap out walnuts for pine nuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also brings the best of both worlds — hearty whole wheat pasta and creamy, nutrient-rich avocado. With the freshness of basil and the crunch of walnuts, Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Avocado Basil Pesto is a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy it as a light weeknight meal or pair it with your favorite side dishes for a well-rounded dinner experience.
