A refreshing pasta salad combines the nutty flavor of whole wheat pasta with creamy avocado for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s easy to make and full of vibrant flavors.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time10 min
Total Time30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Practical Cooking Tips
Cook the pasta just until al dente to keep it firm and prevent mushiness.
Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid a watery texture in the salad.
Toss the salad gently to keep the avocado from getting mashed.
Ingredients
0/16
Why This Dish Is So Special
This dish combines the nutty flavor of whole wheat pasta with the creamy richness of avocado, making it both satisfying and nutritious. It’s packed with fiber, healthy fats, and fresh ingredients, perfect for a light meal or a healthy side.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini and cook until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop it from sticking together.
Step 2
While the pasta cools, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and honey in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Step 3
In a big bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the diced avocado, green bell pepper, carrot, green onions, celery, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and cilantro. Pour the dressing over everything and gently toss to make sure it’s all coated.
Step 4
Finish by stirring in some lemon zest and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This salad is great served at room temperature, so let it sit for a bit before digging in.
255
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Style Ideas
Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. It pairs nicely with grilled chicken or fish and can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing lunch or picnic dish.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To prevent the avocado from browning, drizzle a little lemon or lime juice over the salad before sealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle if you don’t have whole wheat rotini.
How do I keep the avocado from turning brown in the salad?
Adding lemon juice helps prevent browning, and tossing the avocado gently with the dressing right before serving keeps it fresh.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
It’s best to add the avocado just before serving, but you can prepare the pasta and veggies a day ahead and store them separately.
Is it okay to substitute white vinegar with another type?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be good alternatives and will slightly change the flavor.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 1-2 days for best texture and flavor.
Can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu work well as protein additions.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
Yes, rinsing with cold water stops cooking and prevents the pasta from sticking.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
You can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity to about one-third since they are more concentrated.
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl that's both nutritious and delicious. This simple blend of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and hear...
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
