Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and creamy coconut milk. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving comfort food, this vegan recipe will impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without stress.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and coconut cream creates a creamy sauce that is absolutely irresistible.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the herbs to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutritious ingredients like arugula and nutritional yeast, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy all the creaminess without any dairy, making it suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment can make preparation seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Pot: Necessary for boiling the gluten-free fettuccine to perfection.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 4 servings gluten free fettuccine
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 10 sun dried tomatoes chopped

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 7 oz full fat canned coconut milk (thick cream only half of a can)
• 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
• salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• 2 cups baby arugula
• ½ cup flat leaf parsley chopped
• vegan parmesan optional

How to Make Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Boil water in a pot. Add in gluten-free fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a heated skillet, add water, broth, or oil.
Sauté minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for about 2 minutes.
Add water as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Caramelize Flavors

Mix in Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is nicely caramelized.

Step 4: Simmer Sauce

Add cherry tomatoes and water (or broth) to the skillet.
Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes until tomatoes are soft.
Smash them gently with a spoon to release their juices.

Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk

Add thick coconut milk and nutritional yeast into the skillet.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Drain pasta if you haven’t done so already.
Add it directly into the skillet with the sauce.
Toss in baby arugula until everything is well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Plate your pasta dish hot.
Top with chopped parsley and optional vegan parmesan before serving.

Enjoy this creamy vegan dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta is not only delicious but versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle chopped parsley or fresh basil on top for an added burst of flavor and color.

Add Extra Protein

• Chickpeas: Toss in some cooked chickpeas for a protein boost and a delightful texture.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve alongside a light mixed green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Offer warm, crusty garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can elevate the flavors even more.

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How to Perfect Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

To make this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cherry tomatoes instead of canned for a brighter flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more vegetable broth or water while cooking.
• Enhance Flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy some heat.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to mix in sautéed veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli tossed with garlic complements the creaminess perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad adds a refreshing touch with its juicy tomatoes and basil.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa and herbs make for an appealing side.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a crunchy contrast.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can be an excellent low-carb addition to your meal.
6. Crispy Polenta Fries: These flavorful fries add crunch and pair beautifully with the creamy pasta sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the soaking: Failing to soak sun-dried tomatoes can lead to a tough texture. Soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the fettuccine too long can make it mushy. Always check the package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning the sauce properly can dull flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using low-fat coconut milk: Opting for low-fat coconut milk won’t yield the creaminess needed. Always use full-fat canned coconut milk for richness.
• Forgetting to smash tomatoes: Neglecting to smash cherry tomatoes can result in a less flavorful sauce. Smash them well to release their juices and enhance flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the pasta fresh.

Freezing Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

• Duration: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Add a little water if it seems dry.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra coconut milk or broth if necessary to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe.

How can I make this Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free fettuccine, which is widely available in stores.

Can I add vegetables to the Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

What can I substitute for coconut milk in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use coconut milk, cashew cream or any non-dairy cream works well as a substitute.

How do I store leftover Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy a comforting Italian-inspired meal!