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Vegan Creamy Spinach Pasta

Vegan Creamy Spinach Pasta

James
Learn how to make Vegan Creamy Spinach Pasta with a rich, dairy-free sauce. Quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy dinner!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 1
Calories 449 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz 340g pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or gluten-free)
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1 cup raw cashews soaked for 20 minutes in hot water
  • 1 cup coconut milk full-fat or light, as preferred
  • 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup pasta water reserved from cooking pasta
  • Optional toppings: vegan Parmesan chili flakes, fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Bring a generously salted pot of water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until it’s perfectly al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
  • Blend the soaked cashews, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a blender until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of water or pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
  • Warm a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant and slightly golden. Stir in the fresh spinach and sauté until it wilts down.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Pour the creamy cashew sauce into the skillet with the spinach mixture. Stir until well combined and heated through. Add the cooked pasta and toss until each piece is coated in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with vegan Parmesan, chili flakes, or fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Soaking Cashews: If you don’t have time to soak cashews, boil them for 10 minutes to soften quickly.
  • Make Ahead: The cashew sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Customizations: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or vegan chicken for a heartier dish.
Keyword Vegan Creamy Spinach Pasta