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When it comes to preparing a dish that is as vibrant as it is nutritious, the Creamy Avocado Basil Pasta Salad stands out as a delightful option. This recipe beautifully balances creamy textures with fresh, zesty flavors, making it an ideal addition to any dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply seeking a light meal for a casual dinner, this pasta salad is versatile enough to suit various occasions.

Creamy Pasta Salad

Discover the vibrant and nutritious Creamy Avocado Basil Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for any occasion! This delightful recipe beautifully combines ripe avocados and fresh basil for a refreshing flavor. With rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, this salad is not only satisfying but also packed with health benefits. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a light dinner, it’s a versatile dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the blend of creaminess and freshness!
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Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini pasta

1 ripe avocado, pitted and diced into bite-sized pieces

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1/4 cup Greek yogurt

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until cooled. Set aside to drain completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lemon juice as desired.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, carefully add the cooled rotini pasta, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, shredded mozzarella cheese, and finely diced red onion. Pour the creamy dressing over the top of the pasta and other ingredients.

        Toss Gently: Using a spatula, gently fold all the ingredients together, ensuring that the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful to maintain some chunky pieces of avocado, as they add both texture and flavor to the salad.

          Chill and Serve: Once combined, cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top just before serving.

            Enjoy: Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature as a delightful side dish or a light meal that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual family dinners.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 4-6 servings

                Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. You can also garnish with additional fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color.