Tomato Avocado Pasta Salad Recipe

 

Description

This Tomato Avocado Pasta Salad is a refreshing, creamy, and flavorful dish packed with fresh ingredients. It combines juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, and tender pasta with a light, zesty dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick and healthy meal!

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Salad:

• 8 oz (2 cups) pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
• 1 large avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup feta cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup cucumber, diced (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing
   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Salad
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cucumber (if using).
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Finish & Serve
   • Garnish with fresh basil and feta cheese (if using).
   • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

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Tips & Variations

• Prevent Avocado Browning: Toss diced avocado with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Dairy-Free Option: Skip the feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
• Make It Creamy: Mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado in the dressing.
• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

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Health Benefits

• Rich in Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• High in Fiber: Avocado, tomatoes, and whole-grain pasta (if used) help digestion and gut health.
• Vitamin-Packed: Tomatoes offer vitamin C, while avocados provide potassium and folate.
• Antioxidants: Tomatoes contain lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

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Q&A

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

2. What’s the best pasta type for this recipe?

Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or bowtie works best as it holds the dressing well.

3. Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing gives a fresher taste and better control over ingredients.

4. How long does this salad last?

It’s best fresh but can be stored for 24 hours in the fridge. If meal-prepping, store the dressing separately and mix before serving.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta for a GF version.

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Would you like any adjustments to fit your dietary preferences?