Introduction
Vegan Cashew Alfredo is the perfect plant-based alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce, delivering the same rich and creamy texture without dairy. The magic lies in soaked cashews, which create a silky, smooth consistency when blended with garlic, nutritional yeast, and plant-based milk. This Alfredo is not only vegan but also packed with nutrients and healthier fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re avoiding dairy or just looking to try something new, this sauce will become a favorite go-to for pasta nights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight (or soaked for 1 hour in hot water)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for tanginess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for a warm flavor)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
- Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well)
Preparation
Step 1: Soak the Cashews
- If you didn’t soak the cashews overnight, place them in a bowl of hot water for at least 1 hour. Drain and rinse the cashews before use.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, drain, and set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Blend the Cashew Alfredo Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, garlic, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional onion powder or nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy. Start with 1 cup of milk, adding more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference. Add a bit more milk if the sauce feels too thick.
Step 5: Warm the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil (if using) and pour in the blended cashew Alfredo sauce. Warm it gently, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the noodles are well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of black pepper, extra nutritional yeast, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
COOKING NOTE
- Texture Adjustments: Start with less plant-based milk and gradually add more to control the sauce’s thickness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or silken tofu for a creamy, nut-free alternative.
- Make-Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- With Vegetables: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Boost: Top with crispy tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a more filling meal.
- Alternative Use: This sauce works great as a base for casseroles, over baked potatoes, or drizzled on roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Blend thoroughly: If the sauce isn’t smooth, blend for longer or add a touch more milk. A high-speed blender will give the best results.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a bolder flavor, but roasted garlic will offer a sweeter, more mellow taste.
- Balance flavors: If the sauce feels too rich, the lemon juice adds the perfect amount of tang.
- Warm gently: Avoid boiling the sauce to keep its smooth, creamy texture intact.
Prep Time:
10 minutes (plus soaking time for cashews)
Cooking Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes (plus soaking time)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 210mg
(Values may vary depending on pasta type and serving size.)
Conclusion
Vegan Cashew Alfredo is a deliciously creamy and versatile sauce that rivals traditional Alfredo but with the added benefits of plant-based ingredients. Rich in healthy fats from cashews and with a cheesy undertone from nutritional yeast, this sauce is perfect for anyone following a vegan diet or looking to cut back on dairy. Whether you serve it with pasta or use it in other dishes, this simple recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
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Vegan Cashew Alfredo: A Dairy-Free, Creamy Pasta Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus soaking time)
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight (or soaked for 1 hour in hot water)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for tanginess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional, for added depth)
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for a warm flavor)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional, to adjust sauce consistency)
- Pasta of your choice (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well)
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Cashews
- If you didn’t soak the cashews overnight, place them in a bowl of hot water for at least 1 hour. Drain and rinse the cashews before use.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, drain, and set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Blend the Cashew Alfredo Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, garlic, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional onion powder or nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy. Start with 1 cup of milk, adding more if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your preference. Add a bit more milk if the sauce feels too thick.
Step 5: Warm the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil (if using) and pour in the blended cashew Alfredo sauce. Warm it gently, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from becoming grainy.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the noodles are well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of black pepper, extra nutritional yeast, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time for cashews)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sodium: 210mg
- Protein: 12g