Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the most irresistible Creamy Cajun Veggie Pasta that will transform your weeknight dinner from mundane to extraordinary! 🌶️🍝 Imagine a dish that combines the bold, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the luxurious creaminess of coconut cream, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta and vibrant, tender vegetables. This recipe isn't just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and the best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the diced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and develop a slight golden color.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the vegetables, stirring to coat them evenly and enhance their flavor.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
- Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and pour in the coconut cream. Stir gently to combine with the vegetables.
- Add the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the cream sauce. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth, spicy base.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Fold in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts slightly.
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the creamy, spicy flavors of this Cajun-inspired vegetarian pasta dish.
Tips
- For the best flavor, use freshly ground Cajun seasoning or a high-quality blend to ensure maximum taste impact.
- Don't overcook your vegetables - they should be tender-crisp to maintain their nutritional value and texture.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help you adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- If you want extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish more substantial.
- Use full-fat coconut cream for the richest, most luxurious sauce texture.
- Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the creamy, spicy sauce.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the penne with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 0mg
