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Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta

This Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta combines tender al dente pasta with a silky, tomato-based sauce made from blended ripe tomatoes, soaked cashews, garlic, and olive oil. The sauce has a vibrant, velvety texture and a bright, rich flavor, creating a comforting dish free from dairy or nuts. It's an easy, honest recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a cozy, indulgent meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces pasta preferably gluten-free such as brown rice or chickpea
  • 1 cup soaked cashews soaked for at least 30 minutes
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes or 1 can of crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil good quality for flavor
  • 1 squeeze lemon freshly juiced, to brighten the sauce
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Blender or Immersion Blender
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle or spoon

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta. Cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, place soaked cashews, chopped ripe tomatoes, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a splash of olive oil into your blender. Blend until ultra smooth and creamy, with a vibrant red color and silky texture.
  3. Pour the blended sauce into a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and slightly thickened. You should see it bubbling softly.
  4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance brightness and balance.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  6. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb some of the sauce. The sauce should be velvety and cling to the pasta beautifully.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast if desired. Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of this creamy vegan tomato pasta.