Everyone’s had one of those days.

When a simple trip to the bank turns into a torturous 45 minutes of hell.

When you accidentally put Fairy liquid in the dishwasher and it overflows.

When you peel your finger instead of a carrot.

When you fall into the laundry basket when you’re gathering up towels.

When your knee suddenly decides it does not want you to walk around, work out, or be happy.

There are only a few things that can a day like that better. These things are a) listen to Janis Joplin and b) eat pasta with pesto and avocado. Here’s a good starting point for the first one.

And here’s the only non-recipe you need to lift your spirits.

Avocado and Pesto Pasta

You will need pasta of your choice, pesto and around 1/3 of a medium avocado. I made my own pesto, which is really easy… if you’re not me. All you have to do is blend pine nuts, basil, olive oil and parmesan. My advice would be not to attempt to blend it in a smoothie maker. It probably won’t work, and the next smoothie you make will have a vaguely cheesy flavour.

Put your pasta on to boil. I chose wholemeal spaghetti. Mash your avocado with a tiny squeeze of lemon juice. I added some leftover mushrooms and courgettes but if you don’t like them don’t use them. If you don’t like pesto or avocado… I’m not sure what to say to you really.

When your pasta is cooked, drain it and mix with avocado, pesto, vegetables and any other things you have chosen to add. Stir together. Serve with a sprinkle of sea salt and plenty of black pepper, and a slice of garlic bread if you’re that way inclined. Cheer up instantly.

If you’ve followed these steps and you’re still having a bad day, it’s time for cake and wine. Best of luck, my friend.