Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta 🌱🍝

Savor the rich and creamy flavors of this Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Made with a luscious cashew cream sauce and bursting with vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, and spinach, this pasta dish is both satisfying and healthy. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a plant-based meal that everyone will love!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-11-23T06:20:16.493Z

This creamy pasta dish is perfect for those who want to indulge without compromising on health or flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor while the cashew cream provides the perfect rich texture.

A Delightful Plant-Based Alternative

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta is not just a meal; it's an experience that elevates your dining table with its vibrant colors and rich flavors. Replacing traditional dairy with a creamy cashew sauce makes this dish both health-conscious and indulgent. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this pasta is a delicious way to enjoy high-quality ingredients without sacrificing taste.

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach provides a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures, ensuring that each bite delivers a burst of taste. The addition of fresh herbs like basil and parsley not only enhances the dish visually but also adds an aromatic lift that will tantalize your senses. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting weeknight dinner, making it versatile for any occasion.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The raw cashews in the creamy sauce are a great source of healthy fats, proteins, and essential minerals, contributing to heart health and energy levels. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor while providing B vitamins, particularly B12, which is vital for those following a vegan diet.

The inclusion of fresh spinach boosts the dish's nutritional profile, offering valuable antioxidants, vitamins A and C, iron, and fiber. Sun-dried tomatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K and potassium, making this vegan pasta not just delicious but also highly nutritious. Enjoying meals like this one shows that eating plant-based can be both satisfying and beneficial for your health.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta

To achieve the best texture for your pasta, always cook it to al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. This ensures that the pasta holds up well when combined with the creamy sauce and sautéed vegetables. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta cooking water; it can be a great addition to help emulsify your sauce, creating a beautifully cohesive dish.

Experimenting with different types of pasta can further enhance this recipe. Whole grain, gluten-free, or legume-based pasta can add unique flavors and textures while catering to dietary preferences. Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables or your favorites; this recipe serves as a wonderful base that can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Pasta

8 oz pasta of choice

For the Cashew Cream Sauce

1 cup raw cashews, soaked
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, etc.) for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cashew Cream

In a blender, combine soaked cashews, water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, sauté the garlic in a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the cashew cream. Toss well to combine and heat through.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this creamy pasta, consider pairing it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully. Roasted broccoli or zucchini also makes for a tasty and nutritious side that balances the meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil can add an exciting kick. This pasta dish is also delicious served as a leftover option for lunch the next day, as the flavors tend to deepen and meld together when given some time.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store the creamy pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the creaminess of the sauce, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to help loosen the sauce as it warms.

Freezing this vegan pasta is also an option. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and reheat directly from frozen for an easy weeknight meal. However, the texture of the spinach may change slightly, so it's best to enjoy this dish fresh if possible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut for the cream?

Yes, you can substitute cashews with almonds or macadamia nuts.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.