A velvety, creamy sauce clings to perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that warms the soul. This Vegan Cashew Alfredo is not only indulgent but also comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a quick and delightful weeknight dinner option. The soaked cashews play a pivotal role in achieving a rich and satisfying texture that could easily fool even the most devoted cheese lovers.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a great choice for family dinners, and you can easily make it ahead of time, storing the sauce separately from the pasta until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy texture of the cashew sauce mimics traditional Alfredo beautifully.
- It’s a quick recipe that takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- The nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor without any dairy.
- With customizable spices, you can enhance the dish to suit your taste.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious meal:
For the Pasta
- 16 oz. pasta of choice (I used Linguini)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup soaked cashews (soaked overnight or boiled until softened)
- 2 tbsp vegan butter (I used Earth Balance)
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1¼ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 4 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning blend (plus more to taste)
- black pepper to taste
Substituting almond milk with other non-dairy milk is acceptable.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use any pasta type you prefer.
- Replace nutritional yeast with vegan cheese for a different flavor.
- Swap vegan butter for olive oil if needed.
- Omit peas if you’re looking for a simpler dish.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your Vegan Cashew Alfredo.
Prepare the pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions; once done, set aside.
Blend the sauce
Combine all sauce ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend on high until completely smooth and creamy.
Warm the sauce
Transfer the cashew mixture to a sauté pan and warm over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a few splashes of vegetable broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Serve the dish
Spoon the desired amount of sauce over each serving of cooked pasta, topping with a pinch of extra salt, Italian seasoning, and any other toppings you prefer.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store sauce and pasta separately for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, the sauce freezes well but pasta may become mushy.
Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat for about 5-7 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Soak the cashews overnight for the smoothest sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste to enhance flavors.
- Stir the sauce frequently while warming to keep it creamy.
- Add fresh herbs for a pop of freshness just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing meal.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
- Enjoy as a meal prep option for an easy lunch throughout the week.
