Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is your ticket to a rich, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, this creamy fettuccine dish will delight your taste buds. With its luscious sun-dried tomato sauce and hints of garlic and coconut cream, it embodies wholesome flavors while being completely plant-based.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor Packed: Bursting with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and aromatic herbs, each bite is a delight.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like arugula and coconut milk, it’s nutritious without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for extra texture and flavor.
- Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for those following a plant-based diet, this dish proves that vegan meals can be indulgent.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will help streamline your cooking process. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, crucial for sautéing aromatics.
- Pot: A large pot is essential for boiling pasta to achieve the perfect al dente texture.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe, helping you prepare efficiently.
- Chopping board: A sturdy chopping board provides a stable surface for cutting vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 4 servings gluten-free fettuccine
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 10 sun-dried tomatoes chopped
For the Sauce
- 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)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 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 pot. Add 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 2 minutes, adding more liquid as needed.
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 water to the skillet. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften; then smash them gently with a spoon.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
Add coconut milk and nutritional yeast to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the cooked pasta. Add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in baby arugula until well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Top your vegan creamy sun-dried tomato pasta with chopped parsley and optional vegan parmesan before serving. Enjoy!
How to Serve Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Serving your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance this dish.
Pair with Fresh Greens
- Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with a light vinaigrette for a peppery contrast.
- Spinach and Kale Mix: A blend of these greens adds nutrition and color.
Add Crunchy Toppings
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for a nutty flavor and crunch.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, a dash of chili flakes can spice things up.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Crusty Baguette: Use it to soak up any leftover sauce for a satisfying bite.
Drizzle with Olive Oil
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle enhances the flavors and adds richness to the dish.
Optional Protein Boost
- Grilled Tofu: Add grilled tofu on the side for extra protein without losing the vegan touch.
- Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can provide crunch and additional nutrients.
How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Perfecting your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta takes just a few simple tips to enhance flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ripe cherry tomatoes will make a big difference in taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your sauce before serving; add more salt or herbs as needed.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic twist.
- Control Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more water or broth gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Top with fresh parsley or vegan parmesan for an appealing finish.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these sprouts provide a tasty crunch.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives complements the pasta beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and onion add variety and flavor.
- Caprese Salad: Slices of tomato, vegan mozzarella, and fresh basil create a classic Italian side that pairs well.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory pasta dish while being satisfying.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a crunchy texture that enhances your meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the soaking: Not soaking sun-dried tomatoes may lead to a tougher texture. Soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking fettuccine too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions closely and taste it a minute or two before the suggested time.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned dishes can lack flavor. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
- Using low-quality coconut milk: Cheap coconut milk may not provide the desired creaminess. Choose full-fat canned coconut milk for the best results.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and arugula add essential flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta or regular pasta if not following a vegan diet.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking to give your dish an extra kick.
Is this recipe nut-free?
Yes! This recipe does not contain nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Can I make this creamy pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or even switch up the herbs based on what you have on hand. Give it a try for your next meal!
Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, a delightful dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. With its luscious sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy coconut milk, this pasta is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night at home.
Ingredients
- 4 servings gluten-free fettuccine
- 10 sun-dried tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Baby arugula and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a pot and cook gluten-free fettuccine until al dente.
- In a skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in water or broth for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste; cook until caramelized.
- Add cherry tomatoes and water; cover and simmer until softened.
- Mix in coconut milk and nutritional yeast; season to taste before simmering until thickened.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and toss in arugula.
- Serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
