| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 560 | 25g | 5g | 70g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 5g | 18g | 1.3g |
On the cusp of spring and summer, Alexanders Pesto Pasta is a burst of vibrant flavors that simply radiates sunshine. As someone hailing from the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, I have a certain fondness for fresh, natural ingredients. This pasta dish incorporates just that – avocados, fresh basil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and an exciting mix of diced fresh fruit. The fruity twist effortlessly complements the traditional pasta pesto foundation, leading to a delightful play of textures and flavors in your mouth.
A World of Flavor and Health Benefits
What sets Alexanders Pesto Pasta apart from other pasta dishes is its unique combination of ingredients. The rich, creamy avocados are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin K, and dietary fiber, supporting heart health and aiding digestion. Fresh basil, lemon juice, and garlic not only lend their characteristic flavors to the dish but also bring an array of health benefits. They are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as their immunity-boosting capabilities. The cherry tomatoes and black olives add their own health properties, and the inclusion of diced fresh fruit helps to elevate the nutritional value of the dish, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both taste and health.
Inspired by Mediterranean Cuisine
Alexanders Pesto Pasta draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, with its unique combination of creamy avocados, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. It bears a resemblance to Greek Pasta Salad due to the addition of feta cheese and olives. However, the synergistic blending of various fruits sets this dish apart. It is a perfect standalone dish for lunch or dinner; however, it could also complement grilled or roasted dishes, like Grilled Herbed Chicken or Roasted Brussels Sprouts, given its refreshing nature and the variety of flavors it brings to the palate.
From Colorado to your kitchen, the delight of creating Alexanders Pesto Pasta is a journey that every gourmand would love to embark on. With its vivid colors, fresh ingredients, and sensational flavors that celebrate the bounty of the season, it’s a tantalizing dish that lovingly melds health and flavor in a way that few other dishes can match. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a culinary adventure!
What You’ll Need
- 16 ounces of spaghetti
- 2 avocados, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1/3 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup of diced fresh fruit (mango, strawberry, and pineapple work well)
Method
Step One
Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked spaghetti and set it aside.
Step Two
In a food processor or blender, combine the peeled and pitted avocados, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
Step Three
While the food processor or blender is running, slowly add the extra-virgin olive oil in a steady stream. Continue blending until the mixture is well combined, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, avocado pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Toss until the spaghetti is well coated with the pesto and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Five
Just before serving, add the diced fresh fruit. Toss again to incorporate the fruit into the pasta salad.
Step Six
Serve your Alexander’s Pesto Pasta immediately, or store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat. Enjoy!
