If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this delightful Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe. This dish elevates simple ingredients into a luscious, satisfying meal that’s vegan-friendly and ready in no time. Creamy avocado blends seamlessly with fragrant basil and zingy lemon juice, while roasted cherry tomatoes and crunchy toasted pine nuts provide irresistible pops of texture and color. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two halves of a fresh avocado placed on a white marbled surface with a textured black and white cutting board underneath one half. There is a bunch of small, bright red cherry tomatoes on the vine in the upper right corner. A whole garlic bulb and a whole yellow lemon are near the avocados, with one lemon cut in half resting on a small wooden board at the bottom right. Around the board, there are a few bright green basil leaves scattered. Some uncooked short yellow pasta pieces are spread near the garlic and avocado. A woman's hand is not visible in this photo. The scene is bright and colorful with a fresh, clean look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and nutrition. From the creamy avocado that forms the silky sauce to the bright cherry tomatoes and crunchy pine nuts, each component contributes its own magic to this dish.

250 g gemelli pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully with its twisted shape, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
1 avocado: The star ingredient providing a rich, creamy base that’s dairy-free and silky smooth.
2 cloves of garlic: Adds a subtle, aromatic kick that awakens the palate.
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice: Injects brightness and balances the richness of avocado perfectly.
1 handful basil leaves: Brings fresh herbaceous notes that elevate the overall flavor.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast: Offers a hint of cheesy, umami depth that’s vegan-friendly.
2 handfuls fresh baby spinach: Sneaks in a boost of greens and mild earthiness without overpowering.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Enhances creaminess and adds a fruity finish.
Salt: Essential for highlighting the natural flavors.
Pepper: Adds mild heat and complexity.
250 g cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they bring vibrant color and a pleasant pop with each bite.
3 tablespoons pine nuts: Toasted for crunch and a buttery, nutty flavor that completes the dish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your gemelli pasta according to the package instructions. This pasta’s twisted shape is wonderful for holding onto the creamy avocado sauce, so cook it until just tender but still with a slight bite (al dente). Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Sauce

While the pasta cooks, combine the avocado, garlic cloves, lemon juice, basil leaves, nutritional yeast, baby spinach, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, creating the luscious base of our recipe. This sauce is packed with flavor and nutrients, giving you a silky texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

Heat a dry pan over medium heat and toast the pine nuts for just a few minutes, stirring regularly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning—they should turn golden and fragrant. This step unlocks their nutty richness and crunchy texture, which is a delightful contrast in the dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes

Cut the cherry tomatoes in half. You can choose to roast them in a little olive oil at 180 °C (350 °F) for a few minutes to intensify their sweetness and soften them, or simply sauté in a pan for a fresh, juicy finish. If you love garlic, adding finely chopped garlic to the tomatoes while sautéing takes their flavor to the next level.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the hot pasta with the creamy avocado sauce so every nook and cranny is coated. Divide onto plates and top with the roasted or sautéed cherry tomatoes, the toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a vibrant finish. This dish shines when served immediately, delivering maximum creaminess and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe

A top view of a food processor filled with a smooth, bright green mixture in the center, with the blades still visible under the paste, sitting on a white marbled surface. To the top left of the food processor, a half lemon with a bright yellow color is resting, and a whole lemon is positioned slightly lower on the left, both adding a pop of color. Around the base of the food processor, there are yellow uncooked twisted pasta pieces, scattered casually. The overall scene looks fresh and clean with bright natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a few more torn basil leaves on top adds beautiful color and aroma. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a scatter of vegan parmesan elevates the presentation and taste, making every bite feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This creamy avocado pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, which bring a wonderful textural contrast and deepen the overall meal experience. Garlic bread or crunchy focaccia are also fabulous if you want a touch of indulgence alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts. You can also add edible flowers or microgreens for a fresh, elegant touch when entertaining guests. Layering colors and textures on the plate makes this dish a feast for the eyes, as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any remaining Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because avocado oxidizes quickly, the pasta might darken slightly, but a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving freshens it up beautifully.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe since the avocado sauce and fresh tomatoes lose their texture and flavor when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave just until heated through. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce feels too thick, stirring carefully to maintain that luscious creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe?

Absolutely! While gemelli pasta works beautifully for this recipe, spirelli or spaghetti are excellent alternatives. Just choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well for the best experience.

What if I don’t have nutritional yeast; can I skip it?

You can omit nutritional yeast if you don’t have it on hand. It adds a subtle cheesy, umami flavor, but the avocado sauce will still be delicious without it. You might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash of miso for extra depth instead.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes! The entire recipe is plant-based and naturally vegan. It relies on wholesome, fresh ingredients without any dairy or animal products, making it perfect for vegan and vegetarian meals.

Can I prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the avocado sauce a few hours in advance and keep it covered tightly in the refrigerator with plastic wrap pressed on the surface to minimize browning. Fresh lemon juice helps keep it green and fresh-tasting.

What can I use instead of pine nuts?

If pine nuts aren’t available, toasted walnuts, almonds, or cashews make wonderful substitutes. They all contribute a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy avocado sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe has quickly become a cherished favorite of mine whenever I want a fast, nourishing, and vibrant meal. It’s a beautiful balance of creamy, zesty, fresh, and crunchy that feels both comforting and sophisticated. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy how effortlessly this dish brightens your dinner table.

Creamy Avocado Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need