The aroma of roasted garlic fills the kitchen, ushering in a cozy atmosphere that beckons you to the table. This Vegan Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta with Cashews and Parsley is a rich and satisfying dish that takes just under an hour to prepare. The blend of creamy cashews and roasted garlic creates a luscious sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly, making it a standout on your dinner table.
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a comforting, plant-based meal that’s quick to throw together after a long day. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days, making those busy nights even easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The roasted garlic adds a deep, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Creamy cashews create a velvety sauce without dairy.
- It’s quick to make, ready in about 40 minutes.
- Packed with greens, it’s both hearty and nutritious.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your creamy pasta dish.
For the Sauce
- 1 bulb garlic, top sliced off
- 1 ½ cups cashews, soaked for 6-24 hours or 1 hour in boiling water
- 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 bunch parsley
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
For the Pasta
- 3-4 servings cooked pasta of choice (any pasta works here)
Soaking cashews softens them for easier blending.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Nutritional yeast can be replaced with vegan parmesan.
- Spinach can be substituted with kale.
- Any pasta can work, including gluten-free options.
- Lemon juice might be replaced with apple cider vinegar.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta dish.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roast the garlic
Add the garlic bulb to a baking dish and roast for 40 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Blend the sauce
Once the garlic is done roasting, remove it from the bulb and add it to a blender with the soaked cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, spinach, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth.
Combine and serve
Toss the creamy sauce with the cooked pasta until well-coated, then serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, sauce may separate when thawed.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Allow the garlic to roast until caramelized for better flavor.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more vegetable broth if too thick.
- Use fresh parsley for a bright flavor contrast.
- For added protein, consider mixing in some chickpeas or tofu.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Enjoy alongside a glass of white wine for a fancy touch.
