Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta
This recipe is a go-to for cozy dinner nights, whether it’s just you treating yourself or sharing a meal with someone you love. It’s rich, satisfying, and so simple to whip up with just a handful of plant-based ingredients.
Equipment
- Blender for the sauce
- Pot for cooking the pasta
Ingredients
- 8 ounces about 2 cups of pasta (choose your favorite shape; we love fettuccine or penne)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews soaked for at least 2 hours or boiled for 15 minutes
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil plus 1 tablespoon of the oil for added flavor
- 2 –3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk we recommend almond or oat milk
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions, just until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
- In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, sun-dried tomatoes (save a few pieces for garnish, if desired), plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 3: Heat the Sauce
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat. Pour in the blended sauce and stir gently as it warms. Add the red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated. If needed, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water to create a silky consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!