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Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta: 30-Min Heavenly Meal!

Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta

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Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta is a delightful dish that brings rich flavors and dazzling colors to your table. This recipe combines creamy texture with nutrient-rich spinach, providing a satisfying and guilt-free indulgence. This plant-based meal not only fills you up but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz pasta of choice (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
  • ½ cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning based on your preference for this creamy vegan sauce.
  3. Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, for your creamy plant-based spinach pasta.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with spinach. Pour the creamy cashew sauce over the pasta and gently toss to combine everything. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of this vegan spinach pasta recipe.
  5. Add Spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during the last few minutes of cooking your creamy vegan spinach pasta.
  6. Taste Testing: Before serving, taste your Creamy Vegan Spinach Pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Plating: Serve hot, garnishing with additional red pepper flakes or nutritional yeast, if desired, for this easy creamy vegan spinach pasta dish.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Spinach: For the best flavor and a vibrant green color, opt for fresh spinach. Frozen spinach can be used if fresh isn’t available, but be sure to thaw and drain it well.
  • Customize the Creaminess: You can adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of plant-based milk. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add less milk or include more soaked cashews.
  • Experiment with Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can elevate the dish. Consider adding basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.
  • Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or lentils for added protein and texture, making it a healthy creamy vegan spinach pasta.
  • Serve immediately: This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh. It may thicken if stored for later, so reheat with a splash of plant-based milk.
  • Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will be good for about 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the creamy pasta in a suitable container. It should be consumed within 1-2 months for best quality. Reheat on the stove, adding a little non-dairy milk to restore creaminess.
  • Nut-Free Option: Substitute the cashews with silken tofu for a nut-free creamy sauce.
  • Pasta Alternative: Try using zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free and lower in carbs.
  • Flavor Boost: Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and savory twist that complements the spinach perfectly.
  • Lemon Zest: Incorporate fresh lemon juice or zest for a refreshing zing that brightens the dish.

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