Hey there, pasta pals! Welcome to my kitchen shenanigans, where today we’re whipping up a dish that’ll make you want to propose… to your dinner plate! Get ready to fall head over heels for my Vegan Marry Me Pasta! It’s a culinary love story starring lentil pasta, creamy cashew sauce, and a whole lot of veggie goodness. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
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What you’ll need…
Serves 4
- 12 oz. (340g) lentil pasta
- 1.2 oz. (35g) cashew nuts
- 0.4 oz. (10g) nutritional yeast
- 1 pt. (480ml) soy milk
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 red/orange bell peppers, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.8 oz. (20g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 10.6 oz. (300g) canned butter beans, drained
- 1.5 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tsp. dried rosemary
- 2 tsp. cajun spice
- 2 tsp. smoked paprika
- salt & pepper to taste
- 4.2 oz. (120g) baby spinach
- 1.5 tbsp. lemon juice
- 0.5 oz. (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
In this Vegan Marry Me Pasta recipe, the star players are the lentil pasta, cashew nuts, nutritional yeast, soy milk, and an array of colorful veggies like bell peppers, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with plant-based goodness. With lentil pasta providing a hearty base, creamy cashew sauce adding richness, and a medley of veggies offering flavor and nutrients, each component plays a vital role in making this dish a hit.
Try this recipe: Roasted Red Pepper Walnut Sauce Pasta
What you’ll need to do…
- First things first, let’s get that pasta party started! Cook up those lentil noodles following the instructions on the package. We want them al dente, not mushy – pasta perfection is our goal!
- While the pasta’s doing its thing, let’s whip up some creamy cashew magic! Toss those cashews, nutritional yeast, and soy milk into your trusty blender and give it a whirl until it’s as smooth as a silk scarf on a summer breeze.
- Now, grab a large skillet – and heat up a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in those chopped onions and let them sizzle until they’re as translucent. Next up, add in the diced bell peppers, minced garlic, and those tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Let the flavors mingle and dance together for about 10 minutes – they’ll thank you later!
- Time to bring in the beans! Dump in those buttery beans, tomato paste, and sprinkle in your favorite spices – Cajun spice, smoked paprika, and don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Oh, and let’s not forget our creamy cashew concoction from earlier! Stir it all up until it’s a symphony of flavors, just begging to be devoured.
- Pasta alert! Our noodles should be perfectly cooked by now, so toss them into the skillet along with a handful of fresh spinach, a squeeze of zesty lemon juice, and a sprinkle of vibrant parsley. Give it all a good stir until the spinach gets nice and cozy with the rest of the gang. And voilà! Your Vegan Marry Me Pasta is ready to steal the show. Serve it up piping hot and watch as everyone falls head over heels in love with your culinary masterpiece!
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Some substitution/improvisation ideas
Here are some possible substitutions or improvisations you can consider for the Vegan Marry Me Pasta recipe:
- Pasta: Instead of lentil pasta, you can use any other type of pasta such as whole wheat, chickpea, or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Cashew Nuts: If you’re allergic to cashews or prefer a different nut, you can try using soaked almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts to make the creamy sauce.
- Nutritional Yeast: If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, you can omit it or substitute it with grated vegan cheese for added flavor.
- Soy Milk: Any plant-based milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used as a substitute for soy milk. Use regular milk in case you are not following a strict vegan diet.
- Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have available or your personal preferences. You can use zucchini, mushrooms, kale, or broccoli in place of bell peppers or spinach.
- Beans: Instead of butter beans, you can use any other type of beans such as chickpeas, kidney beans, or black beans.
- Spices: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences or what you have in your spice rack. You can add Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or thyme to enhance the taste of the dish.
- Sauce: If you prefer a different sauce base, you can try using coconut milk for a Thai-inspired twist or marinara sauce for a classic Italian flavor.
- Protein: Add extra protein by including tofu, tempeh, or vegan sausage slices to make the dish more filling and satisfying.
Feel free to get creative and make substitutions based on your preferences and dietary needs!
Some useful tips
Here are some useful tips to help you make the most out of your Marry Me Pasta:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente, which means it’s tender but still has a slight firmness to it. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won’t hold up well in the dish.
- Soak Cashews: If you have time, soak the cashews in water for a few hours or overnight before blending. This will help soften them, making for a creamier sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: When blending the cashew sauce, adjust the amount of soy milk to achieve your desired consistency. Add more milk for a thinner sauce or less for a thicker sauce.
- Prep Veggies in Advance: Chop and prepare all your veggies before you start cooking. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything is ready to go when you need it.
- Use High Heat for Sautéing: When sautéing the onions, bell peppers, and garlic, use medium-high heat to ensure they caramelize and develop flavor without burning.
- Add Veggies in Stages: Add the veggies to the skillet in stages based on their cooking times. For example, start with onions and bell peppers, then add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes later to prevent burning.
- Season Layers: Season each component of the dish as you go to build layers of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially when adding salt and pepper.
- Don’t Overcook Spinach: Add the spinach towards the end of cooking and stir until it wilts. Be careful not to overcook it, as spinach can become mushy and lose its vibrant color if cooked for too long.
- Garnish Before Serving: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice over the finished dish just before serving to add brightness and freshness.
- Get Creative: Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite veggies, herbs, or spices to suit your taste preferences. Cooking should be fun and adaptable, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Marry Me Pasta that’s sure to impress!
Serving suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Marry Me Pasta:
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty artisan bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or lemony tahini dressing for a refreshing contrast. Try this salad recipe.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor.
- Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Top grilled portobello mushrooms with the pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Vegan Caesar Salad: Accompany with a vegan Caesar salad made with crisp romaine lettuce, dairy-free Caesar dressing, and homemade croutons.
- Crispy Tofu: Add crispy tofu cubes or slices seasoned with your favorite spices for extra protein and texture.
- Fresh Fruit: Enjoy a refreshing fruit salad or slices of fresh watermelon, pineapple, or mango for a sweet and juicy contrast.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Serve the pasta inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun and colorful presentation.
- Herbed Quinoa: Serve alongside a fluffy bed of herbed quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs until they burst in the oven, then serve as a flavorful topping for the pasta.
These serving suggestions will elevate your Marry Me Pasta into a delightful and well-rounded meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Storage suggestions
Here are some storage suggestions to help you keep your Vegan Marry Me Pasta fresh and delicious:
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the pasta for longer storage, portion it into individual servings and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Ensure the containers are airtight to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pasta can last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out during reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or thawed pasta, transfer it to a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated to your desired temperature.
- Add Moisture: If the pasta seems dry after reheating, add a splash of water, vegetable broth, or additional sauce to revive the flavors and prevent it from becoming too dry.
- Freshen Up: Before serving reheated pasta, freshen it up with a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil to add brightness and flavor.
By following these storage suggestions, you can enjoy your Vegan Marry Me Pasta for days to come, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a quick and convenient meal later on!
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And there you have it, folks! My Vegan Marry Me Pasta is a flavor-packed symphony that’ll have you swooning with every bite. Whether you’re cooking up a cozy dinner for two or hosting a veggie feast for friends, this dish is guaranteed to steal the show. So go ahead, twirl your fork, slurp those noodles, and savor the love that’s cooked into every mouthful. Until next time, happy cooking and may your kitchen adventures be as joyous as this pasta party! Cheers! 🎉🍝
Vegan Marry Me Pasta Sensation
Get ready to wow your taste buds with my Vegan Marry Me Pasta! Tender lentil pasta gets cozy in a dreamy cashew cream sauce, mingling with sautéed veggies and a kick of Cajun spice. It's a love affair on your plate!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
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Place the cashew nuts, nutritional yeast and soy milk into a high speed blend and blend until smooth.
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In a large skillet, over medium heat, sauté the the onions in olive oil until translucent. Then add the peppers, garlic and sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes.
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Stir in the butter beans, tomato paste, spices, salt, pepper and cashew cream, and cook for 2 minutes.
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Now add the cooked pasta, spinach, lemon juice and parsley. Stir until the spinach wilts then serve immediately.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 469kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Total Carbohydrate 70.98g24%
- Dietary Fiber 16g64%
- Protein 26g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
