Avocado Pesto Pasta

Are you a fan of avocados? I love their versatility, and they are nutrient dense! I've been wanting to try Chef Chloe Coscarelli's recipe for this dish for a while, and I finally did - with a few small modifications.

Ingredients:

• 1 box whole wheat pasta
• 1 bunch fresh micro Thai basil
• 1/2 C pine nuts
• 2 avocados, pitted and peeled
• 2 T lemon or lime juice
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 C extra virgin olive oil
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1 C dehydrated, halved cherry tomatoes or sliced sun-dried tomatoes (optional)

Preparation:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine basil, pine nuts, avocadoes, citrus juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender.
4. Process until smooth, or to the consistency that you like.
5. Toss the pasta with the pesto.
6. Put in individual serving bowls, top with tomatoes if using, and enjoy!