Vegan Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a rich and flavorful plant-based dish that’s creamy, savory, and packed with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes. The sauce is made from simple vegan ingredients, creating a luscious texture without any dairy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this pasta is quick to make yet feels indulgent, with a combination of creamy sauce, aromatic garlic, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes that will leave your taste buds delighted.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegan Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is a total game-changer for plant-based pasta dishes. The creamy sauce is made without any heavy cream, relying on cashews and plant-based ingredients to create a rich, velvety texture. The sun-dried tomatoes add an extra layer of savory, umami flavor that takes the dish to another level. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional creamy pasta dishes, this recipe is both satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and the creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta for a truly indulgent meal.

Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli work great)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic)

For the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce:

• 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for at least 2 hours or overnight)

• 1/2 cup water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)

• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For garnish (optional):

• Fresh basil or parsley

• Vegan parmesan (optional)

• Extra sun-dried tomatoes (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

2. Make the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce:
   In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, water (or vegetable broth), nutritional yeast, lemon juice, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Cook the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Combine the pasta and sauce:
   Pour the creamy cashew sauce into the skillet with the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, stirring well to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

5. Toss with pasta:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.

6. Serve:
   Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, extra sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté the vegetables with the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

• For a smoky flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for an extra layer of depth and smokiness.

• Protein boost: For added protein, toss in some cooked chickpeas or tofu, or serve the pasta with a side of crispy tempeh.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so when reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Yes, you can use soaked almonds or sunflower seeds as a substitute for cashews, but the texture may vary slightly. Cashews provide a creamy, smooth texture that’s hard to replicate with other nuts.

Is the sauce nut-free?

No, the sauce is made with cashews, which are the base of the creamy texture. To make this dish nut-free, you can try using blended silken tofu or coconut cream as a substitute for the cashews.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to use, reheat it on the stove and adjust the consistency with a bit of water or vegetable broth.

Can I use store-bought sun-dried tomatoes?

Yes, you can use store-bought sun-dried tomatoes in oil or dried sun-dried tomatoes. If using dried sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes before using.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes in the sauce, or add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste for a spicy kick.

Can I freeze the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the creamy sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or vegetable broth to restore the creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this sauce pairs well with any type of pasta, including spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or gluten-free pasta. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

How do I make this recipe more savory?

For a deeper savory flavor, add a tablespoon of miso paste to the sauce or a pinch of nutritional yeast to enhance the umami taste.

Conclusion

Vegan Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, making it an ideal dish for both vegans and non-vegans alike. The creamy cashew-based sauce and the burst of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes will have you craving this dish again and again. It’s a simple yet indulgent pasta that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd. Enjoy a bowl of this rich, flavorful pasta that’s sure to satisfy!

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