This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this creamy fettuccine is quick to prepare and sure to impress both vegans and non-vegans alike. With its sun-dried tomato sauce, hints of garlic, and creamy coconut milk, it offers a unique twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes.
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.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and balsamic vinegar creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it customizable for everyone.
- Nutritionally Balanced: Packed with vitamins and nutrients from arugula and tomatoes, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for lunches throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this vegan creamy pasta, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows even cooking of the sauce, ensuring all flavors blend perfectly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Using a pot with enough capacity ensures that the fettuccine cooks evenly without sticking together.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping garlic and sun-dried tomatoes quick and easy.
- Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for safely preparing your ingredients.
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
For 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 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 garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for 2 minutes. Add water as needed.
Step 3: Caramelize Flavors
Mix in Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste. Cook for 2–3 minutes until caramelized.
Step 4: Simmer Sauce
Add cherry tomatoes and water to the skillet. Cover and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Smash them with a spoon.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk
Add coconut milk and nutritional yeast. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta. Add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss with arugula until well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Top with parsley and optional vegan parmesan before serving.
Enjoy your meal! This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe will surely become a favorite in your household!
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. You can elevate your dining experience with a few simple serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this creamy dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
- Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil enhances the Italian essence of the dish.
Add Extra Protein
- Chickpeas: Toss in some chickpeas for added protein and texture.
- Tofu: Grilled or sautéed tofu cubes make for a hearty addition.
Serve with a Side Salad
- Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil pairs perfectly.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Ciabatta: A slice of ciabatta serves as a great accompaniment to this meal.
How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Perfecting your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is about enhancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make it even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ripe cherry tomatoes will amplify the dish’s flavor.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more vegetable broth or coconut milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust seasoning according to personal taste; adding chili flakes can give it a nice kick.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after mixing lets flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
Pairing your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil brings vibrant flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon complements the pasta nicely.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with grains and veggies provide an appealing presentation.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil work well alongside the pasta.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a tasty appetizer option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking a perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can be tricky if you don’t watch out for common pitfalls.
- Using the wrong pasta: Not all gluten-free pastas are created equal. Choose a brand that holds up well during cooking to avoid mushiness.
- Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can quickly turn bitter if overcooked. Sauté it just until fragrant to maintain its flavor.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your sauce properly can lead to bland pasta. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Not smashing the cherry tomatoes: Skipping this step means missing out on a rich tomato flavor. Smash them well to release their juices into the sauce.
- Skipping nutritional yeast: This ingredient adds depth and a cheesy flavor. Don’t leave it out if you want that creamy, savory taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious dish.
What makes this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe special?
This recipe stands out due to its rich, creamy texture from coconut milk combined with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, making it comforting yet healthy.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they may not provide the same concentrated flavor as sun-dried tomatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe uses gluten-free fettuccine, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I customize this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the herbs based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty yet wholesome. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or toppings to make it truly yours!
Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe. This delightful dish features rich sun-dried tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and creamy coconut milk, creating a luxurious sauce that coats gluten-free fettuccine perfectly. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is both quick to prepare and satisfying for vegans and non-vegans alike. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that’s packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients like arugula and cherry tomatoes. Serve it garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan for an impressive finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 servings gluten-free fettuccine
- 10 sun-dried tomatoes
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 7 oz coconut milk
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Cook the gluten-free fettuccine in boiling water until al dente.
- In a skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes in water or oil for 2 minutes.
- Add Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste; cook until caramelized (2–3 minutes).
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and water; cover and simmer until softened (3–4 minutes).
- Incorporate coconut milk and nutritional yeast; season to taste and simmer until thickened (5–10 minutes).
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss with arugula.
- Serve garnished with parsley and optional vegan parmesan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
