Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The creamy sauce, made from sun-dried tomatoes and coconut cream, offers a burst of flavor that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. With its rich taste and easy preparation, this pasta dish stands out as a go-to for those looking to enjoy wholesome Italian-inspired cuisine without dairy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar creates an irresistible sauce that elevates the dish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious elements like arugula and nutritional yeast, this pasta keeps your meals wholesome.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
- Dairy-Free Delight: This creamy pasta gives you all the richness without any dairy products, appealing to various dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to streamline your preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and creating the creamy sauce.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps in chopping sun-dried tomatoes quickly and efficiently.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for food preparation.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 4 servings gluten free fettuccine
For the Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 10 sun dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 tbsp italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 7 oz full fat canned coconut milk (thick cream only half of a can)
For Flavoring
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- 2 cups baby arugula
- ½ cup flat leaf parsley chopped
- vegan parmesan optional
How to Make Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add the gluten-free fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In a heated skillet, add water, broth, or oil.
- Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 2 minutes. Add water if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Caramelize Flavors
- Mix in Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is caramelized.
Step 4: Simmer Sauce
- Add cherry tomatoes and one cup of water or broth to the skillet.
- Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes soften; smash them with a spoon to release their juices.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
- Stir in thick coconut milk and nutritional yeast.
- Season with salt and pepper; simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the cooked pasta.
- Add it to the skillet with the sauce; toss well with baby arugula until combined.
Step 7: Serve
- Top with chopped parsley and optional vegan parmesan before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta!
How to Serve Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic touch.
- Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Vegan Parmesan: Grate some vegan parmesan on top for extra creaminess.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a nice kick.
Complementary Salads
- Arugula Salad: Serve with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Caprese Salad: A vegan version with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze pairs perfectly.
Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside pasta.
- Focaccia: Serve slices of focaccia for a delicious Italian-inspired addition.
How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, follow these tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh sun-dried tomatoes and high-quality coconut milk will enhance the flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired texture.
- Mix Well: Ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce by tossing it thoroughly in the skillet.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a pinch of salt can make a big difference.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets roasted with garlic make a delightful side.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and flavor to your plate.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad loaded with chickpeas, cucumbers, and olives complements the pasta well.
- Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil can be a great side dish.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa and vegetables bring extra heartiness to the meal.
- Caesar Salad (Vegan): A creamy vegan Caesar salad pairs nicely with the flavors in the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people encounter challenges while making this delicious dish. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.
- Overcooking Pasta: Cooking fettuccine too long can lead to mushy pasta. Always follow the package instructions and check for al dente texture.
- Not Sautéing Aromatics Properly: Failing to sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes enough can result in bland flavors. Make sure to cook them until fragrant for maximum taste.
- Skipping Coconut Milk: Omitting the coconut milk may make the sauce less creamy. Ensure you use full-fat coconut milk for a rich consistency.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning your sauce can leave it flat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Rushing the Sauce Simmer: Quick cooking might not allow flavors to meld. Allow sufficient time for simmering to develop a deeper flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The dish stays fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring until warmed evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe.
Can I use regular fettuccine instead of gluten-free?
Yes, you can use regular fettuccine if gluten isn’t a concern. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce while it simmers.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic.
Is there a substitute for nutritional yeast?
If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can use vegan cheese alternatives or omit it entirely. The dish will still taste great!
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Absolutely! You can sauté the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes with vegetable broth or water instead of oil.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or additional spices to suit your taste buds!
Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a bowl of comfort with this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe. This delightful dish, ready in just 25 minutes, combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy coconut milk to create a velvety sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 servings gluten-free fettuccine
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 10 sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup water or vegetable broth
- 7 oz full-fat canned coconut milk (thick cream only)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Baby arugula and flat-leaf parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, add the gluten-free fettuccine, and cook until al dente.
- In a heated skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste; cook until caramelized.
- Add cherry tomatoes and one cup of broth; cover and simmer until softened.
- Incorporate coconut milk and nutritional yeast; season to taste.
- Drain pasta and combine with the sauce; toss in baby arugula.
- Serve topped with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
