Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta is both satisfying and simple to prepare. You’ll love how quickly it comes together while still impressing your guests with its vibrant taste and wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar delivers a rich, savory flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making this recipe adaptable for different dietary needs.
- Nutritious Meal: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs, this vegan pasta is a wholesome choice without sacrificing taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, it’s sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will make your experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need for the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of garlic and tomatoes, enhancing their flavor.
- Pot: Essential for boiling the pasta to perfection without overcooking.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs for quick prep work.
Ingredients
This creamy vegan fettuccine features a flavorful sun-dried tomato sauce with hints of garlic, balsamic vinegar, and coconut cream. Perfectly tossed with arugula and herbs for a wholesome Italian-inspired meal!
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
To Finish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 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 according to package instructions. Cook 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. If needed, add more water while sautéing.
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 along with one cup of water or broth. Cover the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are soft. Smash them gently with a spoon.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
Pour in coconut milk and nutritional yeast. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the cooked pasta. Add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in baby arugula until everything is well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Top your pasta with freshly chopped parsley and optional vegan parmesan before serving hot.
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 is rich in flavor and truly satisfying. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Combine chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a protein-packed side.
Add Extra Toppings
- Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkle vegan parmesan on top for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Chili Flakes: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce.
Serve with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toast bread brushed with garlic and olive oil for dipping in the pasta sauce.
- Stuffed Garlic Bread: Fill bread with vegan cheese and herbs for a flavorful twist.
Enjoy with Wine
- Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: These wines pair well with the creamy flavors of the pasta.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon slices.
How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
To make your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ripe cherry tomatoes will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Creaminess Factor: For extra creaminess, add more coconut milk or a splash of vegetable broth when cooking.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked just right so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
To create a complete meal around your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, here are some delicious side dish options that complement its flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Roasted until tender and drizzled with balsamic glaze for added richness.
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant lightly seasoned and grilled for a smoky flavor.
- Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup enhances the meal’s heartiness while being nutritious.
- Caprese Salad Skewers: Cherry tomatoes and basil on skewers drizzled with balsamic reduction for freshness.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a delightful crunch.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and veggies adds texture and nutrition to the table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the soaking: Not soaking sun-dried tomatoes can lead to tough texture. Always soak them in hot water for a few minutes before using.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking gluten-free fettuccine too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect al dente results.
- Ignoring seasoning: Neglecting to season your sauce can result in bland pasta. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook.
- Using low-fat coconut milk: Low-fat coconut milk may not provide the creaminess you desire. Stick with full-fat for a rich texture.
- Not mashing tomatoes: Failing to mash cherry tomatoes means missing out on a flavorful sauce. Smash them gently as they soften for best results.
- Forgetting the greens: Skipping arugula or parsley reduces freshness in your dish. Always add them for vibrant flavor and nutrition.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-5 days for best taste.
Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in individual portions for convenience.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months.
Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: In a skillet, add a splash of water or vegetable broth. Heat over medium until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Try different herbs such as basil or thyme for varied flavors.
What can I serve with this vegan pasta dish?
Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that complements the flavors of the creamy sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free fettuccine as specified in the recipe, and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers from the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and consume within 3-5 days.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it suitable for various tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy a wholesome Italian-inspired 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 blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. Made with gluten-free fettuccine and a luscious sauce crafted from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and coconut milk, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. It’s incredibly quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes—and is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and wholesome ingredients. The addition of fresh arugula and herbs enhances the overall flavor, making this pasta not only satisfying but also a nutritious choice that appeals to everyone, including non-vegans.
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)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- Fresh arugula and parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the gluten-free fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in a splash of water or broth for about 2 minutes.
- Add Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes with one cup of water or broth; cover and simmer until softened.
- Mix in coconut milk and nutritional yeast; season with salt and pepper; let it thicken for 5-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and combine it with the sauce; toss with arugula until well mixed.
- Serve topped with freshly chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
