Creamy Avocado Fettuccine: A Quick Vegan Delight

Fettuccine with Creamy Avocado Sauce

Overview

Imagine a dish that combines the comforting nature of fettuccine with the creamy decadence of an avocado sauce, bringing a fresh and vibrant twist to your meal. Fettuccine with Creamy Avocado Sauce is a delightful vegan alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce, omitting the cream, butter, eggs, and cheese, yet achieving a similar luxurious texture. This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.

Recipe Summary

• Name: Fettuccine with Creamy Avocado Sauce
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 351.8
• Category: One Dish Meal
• Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Vegetable, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 30 Mins, No Cook, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Small Appliance, Easy, Inexpensive
• Rating: 2.5 stars based on 5 reviews

Ingredients

• Tomatoes: 3, medium, ripe
• Avocados: 2, large, ripe
• Red Onion: 1/4, medium
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Hot Chili Pepper: 1, seeded and finely chopped
• Lime Juice: 1, freshly squeezed
• Fresh Cilantro: 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh Ground Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fettuccine: 12 ounces, uncooked
• Scallions: 2, thinly sliced

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 351.8
• Fat: 12.6g
• Saturated Fat: 2.1g
• Cholesterol: 47.9mg
• Sodium: 410.9mg
• Carbohydrates: 52.1g
• Fiber: 7.8g
• Sugar: 4.4g
• Protein: 10.5g

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocado Sauce:

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   • Combine tomatoes, avocados, red onion, garlic, hot chili pepper, lime juice, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, salt, and fresh ground pepper in a food processor fitted with a steel blade or a blender.
   • Process until liquefied, about 5 to 10 seconds. Set aside.

2. Cook the Fettuccine:

   • In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil.
   • Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
   • Drain well.

3. Combine and Serve:

   • Transfer the cooked fettuccine to serving plates.
   • Ladle the prepared avocado sauce over the top.
   • Sprinkle with thinly sliced scallions and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

1. Choose the Right Avocados:

   • For a smooth sauce, ensure that your avocados are ripe but not overripe. They should give slightly to pressure but not be mushy.

2. Adjust the Spice:

   • If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the hot chili pepper. For a spicier kick, add more chili pepper or a dash of cayenne.

3. Add Vegetables:

   • Incorporate your favorite seasonal vegetables for added flavor and nutrients. Blanched broccoli, green beans, or sautéed spinach work wonderfully in this dish.

4. Texture Variations:

   • For a chunkier sauce, blend the ingredients for a shorter time, leaving some texture. If you prefer a smooth and silky sauce, blend until completely puréed.

5. Storing Leftovers:

   • Store any leftover sauce separately from the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before using.

Culinary Notes

Fettuccine with Creamy Avocado Sauce offers a delightful balance between the rich, creamy texture typically associated with dairy-based sauces and the fresh, zesty flavors of avocado and lime. The avocados provide healthy fats and fiber, while the lime juice adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish. This recipe aligns well with a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan and low-cholesterol diets, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Standalone Dish:

   • Serve the fettuccine with a simple green salad on the side for a light and refreshing meal.

2. With Protein:

   • Add grilled tofu or tempeh to make the dish more filling and protein-packed, especially for those following a plant-based diet.

3. As a Side:

   • Use this pasta as a side dish for grilled or roasted vegetables, complementing their flavors with the creamy avocado sauce.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Spring: Incorporate blanched asparagus and peas for a fresh and vibrant addition.
• Summer: Add diced cherry tomatoes and corn kernels for a burst of sweetness.
• Autumn: Mix in sautéed mushrooms and roasted butternut squash for a heartier meal.
• Winter: Use roasted Brussels sprouts and red bell peppers for a comforting and warm dish.

Cooking Equipment

• Food Processor or Blender: Essential for creating the creamy avocado sauce.
• Large Pot: For boiling the fettuccine.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Serving Plates: For presenting the finished dish.

Common Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

   • Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other types of pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or even a gluten-free alternative if needed.

2. Is there a way to make this dish nut-free?

   • This recipe is already nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

   • The sauce is best when made fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

Troubleshooting

1. Sauce too thick: Add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
2. Sauce too spicy: Reduce the amount of hot chili pepper or add a bit more lime juice to balance the heat.
3. Avocado browning: If not serving immediately, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce to prevent oxidation and browning.

Conclusion

Fettuccine with Creamy Avocado Sauce is a perfect dish for those who love creamy pasta but are looking for a healthier, vegan alternative. With its quick preparation time, fresh ingredients, and ability to adapt to seasonal vegetables, this recipe is both versatile and delicious. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this dish will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors of this modern twist on traditional pasta.