Creamy Avocado & Cherry Tomato Vegetarian Pasta

• 12 ounces penne or fusilli pasta
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegetarians)
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly and roast for 12-15 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
2. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese (if using), 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach a creamy, sauce-like consistency.
4. Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy avocado sauce over the pasta and gently toss until well coated.
5. Add the roasted cherry tomatoes to the pasta and carefully fold them in, trying to keep some whole for texture contrast.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
7. Divide the pasta among plates or bowls.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Chef tips

• Use ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the creamiest sauce.
• If you don’t have a food processor, mash the avocado with a fork and finely mince the garlic and basil, mixing everything thoroughly.
• For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• To add protein, consider stirring in cooked white beans or chickpeas for extra fiber and nutrients.