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Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta with Coconut Milk

This dish transforms classic tomato pasta into a rich, silky creation by adding coconut milk, which balances acidity and creates a luxurious texture. The recipe involves simmering tomatoes with garlic and herbs, then stirring in coconut milk to develop a creamy, vibrant sauce that coats each strand of pasta. Finished with fresh herbs, it’s a comforting yet fresh plant-based meal with a hint of tropical aroma.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Vegan
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta preferably spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 tbsp olive oil good quality
  • 3 cloves garlic fresh, minced
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes blended
  • 1 cup coconut milk full-fat preferred
  • to taste salt adjust after tasting
  • to taste black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or oregano chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant and slightly golden, about 30 seconds, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
  3. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, breaking them apart with your spoon. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and turns a vibrant red.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes until it becomes creamy and coats the back of your spoon.
  5. Use a ladle to reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain your cooked pasta.
  6. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all strands, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired. Continue tossing until everything is well combined and heated through.
  8. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped basil or oregano. Enjoy immediately while warm, with the aroma of tropical herbs blending with the comforting tomato sauce.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. Feel free to add greens or protein for extra bulk and nutrition. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.