Avocado & Lemon Zest Spaghetti

Introduction:

This Avocado & Lemon Zest Spaghetti recipe is a delightful weeknight dinner option, especially perfect for avocado enthusiasts. Inspired by Anna Jones’ book, “A Modern Way To Eat,” this dish combines the creamy richness of avocado with the brightness of lemon zest, creating a simple yet flavorful pasta experience. Quick to prepare and requiring minimal ingredients, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining fresh and vibrant flavors in an uncomplicated manner.

Ingredients:

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 400g spaghetti
• Olive oil
• 4 tablespoons capers in brine, roughly chopped
• 1 clove of garlic, peeled and very finely sliced
• Grated zest of 2 unwaxed lemons and juice of 1⁄2 a lemon
• A bunch of fresh basil, leaves picked
• A bunch of fresh parsley, leaves picked (or substitute with watercress)
• 2 ripe avocados

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Fill a large pan with boiling water and add a good pinch of salt.
   • Bring to a rolling boil, then add the spaghetti and cook for 8–10 minutes or until perfectly al dente.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large frying pan on low heat.
   • Add the chopped capers and sliced garlic, sizzle gently until the edge of the garlic starts to slightly brown.
   • Remove from heat and add the lemon zest.
   • Chop the fresh basil and parsley (or watercress) and add them to the pan.
3. Prepare Avocados:
   • Halve and destone the avocados.
   • Use a knife to make criss-cross cuts through the flesh, chopping it inside the skin.
   • Use a spoon to scoop out each half into the pan.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Stir to mix all the flavors together.
   • Before draining the pasta, carefully scoop out half a mugful of the pasta water.
   • Drain the pasta and add it to the frying pan with a little of the cooking water and a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice as needed.
   • Scoop the pasta into bowls and enjoy this delightful Avocado & Lemon Zest Spaghetti, as suggested by Anna Jones, “eat on your lap.”

Notes:

• You can substitute watercress for parsley, and add it at the very end.
• The recipe can be easily adjusted for a smaller portion size.

Conclusion:

Anna’s Avocado & Lemon Zest Spaghetti is a testament to the joy of simple and fresh ingredients. The creamy avocado, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs create a flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Embrace the combination of textures and tastes, and savor this delightful recipe that brings together the richness of avocado and the brightness of lemon in a comforting bowl of spaghetti.