Are you ready to indulge in a luscious, creamy pasta dish that’s not only delicious but also completely vegan? Look no further than this Easy Creamy Vegan Pasta! With a dreamy cashew-based sauce that rivals any traditional cream sauce, this recipe is a game changer for dinner nights. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a comforting Italian meal that will impress your family and friends. Grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup cashews, soaked
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by soaking cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. If possible, soak them overnight for maximum creaminess.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves, then add them to the blender with the cashews.
- Add nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Return the pasta to the pot and pour the cashew cream sauce over it. Stir gently to coat all pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped basil leaves.
Tips
- Soak Cashews for Creaminess: For the best texture, soak your cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you have the time. This will ensure a super smooth and creamy sauce.
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Don’t skip salting the boiling water before adding your pasta. This is your chance to infuse flavor directly into the pasta, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust Consistency: After mixing the cashew cream with the pasta, if the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little of the reserved pasta water. It’s the perfect way to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Experiment with Herbs: While fresh basil is a fantastic garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to your pasta just before serving.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 504kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
