Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this *Dairy-Free Creamy Cheese Pasta*, a luscious and satisfying dish that's perfect for anyone craving a plant-based twist on classic mac-and-cheese. Made with a velvety sauce crafted from blended cashews, nutritional yeast, and a hint of lemon juice, this recipe delivers the rich, cheesy flavor you loveβwithout a drop of dairy. With the addition of garlic and onion powders for depth and a touch of olive oil for silkiness, this quick and easy pasta recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. Ideal for vegans, those with lactose intolerance, or anyone seeking a wholesome yet decadent meal, this dish pairs beautifully with a garnish of fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, this creamy, dairy-free pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Begin by soaking the raw cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes to soften them. This will help create a creamy sauce.
While the cashews are soaking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
In a blender, combine the drained cashews, water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
Return the pot used for cooking pasta to the stove over medium heat. Add the olive oil, and once hot, pour in the creamy cashew sauce.
Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Serve the dairy-free creamy cheese pasta in bowls, garnishing with fresh basil if desired.
Calories |
1506 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 80.4 g | 103% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.9 g | 70% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2408 mg | 105% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 155.4 g | 57% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.1 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.4 g | ||
| Protein | 51.3 g | 103% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 113 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 11.1 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 1353 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.