Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

Delight in this Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce, a vibrant dish brimming with fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings delightful flavors and a satisfying meal that everyone will love. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This vegan pasta primavera comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The creamy garlic cashew sauce adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh veggies.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand; this dish is adaptable to your preferences.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from cashews and fiber from vegetables, this pasta dish is both healthy and fulfilling.
• Plant-Based Goodness: A fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make cooking much smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth, creamy cashew sauce that defines this dish.
• Large Pot: Perfect for boiling pasta and sautéing the vegetables simultaneously, saving time and effort.

Ingredients

Delicious vegan pasta primavera packed with tender vegetables and tossed in a creamy garlic cashew sauce. This easy vegan pasta primavera recipe has wonderful flavors and plenty of protein and healthy fats for a comforting plant-based meal the whole family will love!

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces penne pasta (or sub any kind of pasta you’d like, including gluten free)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium red onion, sliced lengthwise
• 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
• 2 cups small broccoli florets
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium zucchini, sliced and quartered OR cut into thin strips
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

• ¾ cup raw cashews
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

• Red pepper flakes
• Extra salt and black pepper, if desired
• Garlic crostini/garlic bread

How to Make Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Sauce

First make your sauce: soak the cashews in 2 cups of warm water for at least 2 hours; otherwise I’ve found that you can easily speed up the process by adding the raw cashews to a pot with water and placing over high heat. Bring water to a boil, then immediately turn off the heat; let the cashews sit for about 30 minutes in the hot water, then drain.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Once the cashews have finished soaking you’ll be ready to make the sauce: add drained cashews, ½ cup fresh water, fresh lemon juice, garlic, salt, onion powder, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high until sauce comes together. If you want a bit of a thinner sauce, add 1-2 tablespoons more water. Set aside until ready to use.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Next, cook your pasta until al dente according to the directions on the package.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

While your pasta boils, you can cook your vegetables. Add olive oil to a large pot over medium heat. Once oil is hot, add onion, carrot, red bell pepper, and broccoli; sauté for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally. Next add in zucchini and cook for an additional 2 minutes until all veggies are tender but still crisp. Finally stir in tomatoes and Italian seasoning; cook for 1 minute more.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Finally, add cooked pasta and cashew sauce to the pot with veggies; stir well to combine. Serve with red pepper flakes if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or crostini!

How to Serve Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance your dining experience with various accompaniments and serving suggestions.

Add a Fresh Green Salad

• A simple green salad pairs perfectly, providing a refreshing crunch to balance the creamy pasta.

Top with Nutritional Yeast

• Sprinkle nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s packed with vitamins and adds depth to your dish.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm, crusty garlic bread complements the pasta beautifully, making it an ideal side for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish’s presentation and infuse it with vibrant flavors.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables can add another layer of texture and flavor, making the meal more satisfying.

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How to Perfect Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

To ensure your Vegan Pasta Primavera is a hit every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking the cashews for at least 2 hours ensures a silky smooth sauce. If you’re short on time, use hot water for quicker soaking.

• Don’t overcook veggies: Aim for tender-crisp vegetables. Overcooking will lead to mushy greens that lose their vibrant color and nutrients.

• Adjust sauce consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add more water to achieve your desired texture while blending.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce and veggies during preparation. Adjust seasoning according to your preference for perfect flavor balance.

• Use seasonal produce: Incorporating seasonal vegetables will enhance freshness and flavor while supporting local agriculture.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

For a complete meal, consider adding some delicious side dishes that pair well with Vegan Pasta Primavera.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad made from mixed greens topped with a vinaigrette adds freshness to your plate.

2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that complements the creamy pasta nicely.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice provide additional protein and nutrients.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and pair well with the savory flavors of the pasta primavera.

5. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéing spinach in olive oil adds an iron-rich side that cooks up in just minutes.

6. Zucchini Noodles: For extra veggies, serve spiralized zucchini noodles alongside or under the pasta for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the pasta: This can lead to mushy noodles. Always cook the pasta al dente as instructed on the package for the best texture.
• Skipping the soaking step: Soaking cashews is crucial for a creamy sauce. If you’re in a hurry, use hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften them quickly.
• Using too much water in the sauce: Adding excess water can dilute flavors. Start with less and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.
• Not seasoning vegetables enough: Under-seasoned veggies can taste bland. Make sure to season while cooking to enhance their natural flavors.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have. Use seasonal produce for freshness and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

• Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Separate portions can help with quicker thawing.

Reheating Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or veggie broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce.

Can I make Vegan Pasta Primavera with other types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any pasta you prefer, including gluten-free options.

How do I make the cashew sauce nut-free?

To create a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds or blended silken tofu as alternatives.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make it gluten-free by choosing gluten-free pasta varieties available in stores.

Can I add protein to my Vegan Pasta Primavera?

Absolutely! Consider adding chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for an extra protein boost.

How should I store leftovers of Vegan Pasta Primavera?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your favorite vegetables or dietary needs. Give it a try; your family will love this comforting plant-based meal!

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Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce

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• Author: Meg
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Garlic Cashew Sauce, a delightful dish bursting with vibrant vegetables and a luscious sauce that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on health. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy solo dinner, this dish seamlessly combines flavor and nutrition. The creamy garlic cashew sauce elevates the fresh veggies, making every bite a celebration of plant-based goodness. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces penne pasta (or any pasta)
• ¾ cup raw cashews
• ½ cup water (for blending)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium red onion
• 1 large carrot
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 medium zucchinis
• Fresh lemon juice
• Garlic
• Salt
• Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Soak cashews in warm water for at least 2 hours or boil for quicker softening.
2. Blend soaked cashews with water, lemon juice, garlic, salt, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
4. Sauté onion, carrot, red bell pepper, and broccoli in olive oil for about 4 minutes.
5. Add zucchini and tomatoes; cook for another 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
6. Combine cooked pasta with sautéed vegetables and cashew sauce; mix well.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg