Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that combines creamy coconut milk with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The rich sauce coats gluten-free fettuccine beautifully, making it a satisfying choice for both vegans and non-vegans alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar creates a rich taste that will impress anyone.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or side dish, this pasta works well for various occasions, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutritional yeast, this dish offers great nutrition while being completely dairy-free.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or protein sources for extra variety and nutrition.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it doesn’t stick together.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and creating the flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients gently without scratching your cookware.
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
For the Creaminess
- 7 oz full-fat canned coconut milk (thick cream only half of a can)
- 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. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a heated skillet, add water, broth, or oil. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 2 minutes. Add more liquid if necessary to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Caramelize Flavors
Mix in the Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is caramelized.
Step 4: Simmer Sauce
Add cherry tomatoes and water (or broth) to the skillet. Cover it and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften. Smash them gently with a spoon.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
Pour in the coconut milk along with nutritional yeast. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain any excess water from your cooked pasta if necessary. Add it to the skillet with sauce. Toss in the baby arugula until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and optional vegan parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta!
How to Serve Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Serving your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this creamy dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Sprinkling fresh basil adds a fragrant touch.
- Oregano: A sprinkle of oregano enhances the Italian flavor profile.
Pair with a Salad
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and vegan mozzarella create a classic pairing.
Add Crunch
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of spice, red pepper flakes add heat and flavor.
Drizzle with Sauce
- Balsamic Reduction: A drizzle of balsamic reduction can enhance sweetness and acidity.
- Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth.
How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
To ensure your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ripe cherry tomatoes provide vibrant flavors.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This keeps the pasta firm and prevents it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more water or vegetable broth to reach your desired creaminess.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the pasta to rest for a few minutes after combining helps the flavors meld together.
- 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 can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a crunchy contrast.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer before the main dish.
- Vegan Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad brings a tangy crunch that pairs well with pasta.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet balance to the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds depth to the sauce. Don’t skip it; instead, sauté it properly for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions for perfect texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland results. Always season throughout the cooking process.
- Using Low-Fat Coconut Milk: Low-fat alternatives won’t give the same creamy texture. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for richness.
- Not Adding Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Don’t forget to toss in parsley and arugula before serving!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Portion out servings for easier reheating later.
Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pasta to use for this recipe?
You can use gluten-free fettuccine or any type of pasta you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.
Can I make this dish nut-free?
Yes! This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is already nut-free as it uses coconut milk instead of nuts.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap out herbs based on your preference.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook it beforehand and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures that will delight your taste buds. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—dinner parties, weeknight meals, or even meal prep! Customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs, and enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love.
Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of our Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe. This delightful dish features gluten-free fettuccine enveloped in a luscious sauce made from full-fat coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this pasta dish is not only quick to prepare in just 25 minutes but also versatile enough to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. The addition of fresh arugula and nutritional yeast adds a touch of healthiness without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein options!
Ingredients
- 4 servings gluten-free fettuccine
- 10 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 7 oz full-fat canned coconut milk (thick cream only half of a can)
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, cook the gluten-free fettuccine until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant.
- Add Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste; cook until caramelized.
- Add cherry tomatoes and broth; let simmer until softened.
- Stir in coconut milk and nutritional yeast; season with salt and pepper.
- Combine pasta with sauce and toss in arugula.
- Serve hot with parsley garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Vegan Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
