Looking for delicious and easy vegetarian dinner recipes? You’ve come to the right place! This post will showcase 10 incredibly flavorful and simple vegetarian dinners from The Plant Based School. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, offering a variety of options from hearty pasta dishes to vibrant salads and comforting soups. Ready to dive in and discover your new go-to vegetarian meals? Let’s get cooking!
What is Creamy Tomato Pasta?
Creamy Tomato Pasta. Doesn’t the name just roll off the tongue like a warm spoonful of deliciousness? You might wonder, what makes it creamy without cream? Or, is it truly as easy as they say? Some say it’s a modern take on the classic marinara, a sophisticated sauce that traded in its traditional origins for healthier ingredients.
Still, some say, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through is stomach”. Well, here’s a delightful surprise: This recipe relies on a secret plant-based ingredient to deliver all the creaminess without any dairy! (You’ll find out soon enough). Intrigued? Give Creamy Tomato Pasta a try tonight – you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tomato Pasta:
This Creamy Tomato Pasta is a triple threat: delicious, affordable, and wonderfully customizable. The main highlight is the unbelievably creamy tomato sauce that’s entirely dairy-free! Making it at home saves you money compared to ordering pasta at a restaurant, and you can load it up with your favorite veggies.
A sprinkle of fresh basil and a generous grating of vegan parmesan cheese elevate it to gourmet status. For another comforting pasta option, check out our Vegan Mac and Cheese recipe! Ready to experience pasta perfection? Try making Creamy Tomato Pasta at home – you’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Pasta:
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (any shape)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Vegan parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Creamy Tomato Pasta:
This dish is unbelievably easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. The star of the show is the lusciously creamy sauce that’s entirely dairy-free, achieved with our genius tip. Preparation time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soak the Cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to soften, making them easier to blend.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, drain the soaked cashews. Combine the drained cashews, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the Creamy Tomato Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese, if desired.
What to Serve Creamy Tomato Pasta With
This Creamy Tomato Pasta pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pasta. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Tomato Pasta:
- Soak Cashews Thoroughly: Ensure the cashews are soaked long enough to achieve a truly creamy texture. If you have a high-powered blender, 30 minutes might suffice, but soaking them for an hour or two will guarantee the best results.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Some people might prefer a sweeter sauce, in which case, a pinch of sugar can be added.
- Pasta Water is Key: Don’t underestimate the importance of reserving pasta water. The starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it cling to the pasta better.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this dish. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would all be delicious additions.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
To store Creamy Tomato Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave it for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, or reheat it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up while reheating. Freezing Creamy Tomato Pasta is not recommended as the sauce texture may change upon thawing.
Final Thoughts:
Creamy Tomato Pasta is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and satisfying vegetarian dinner. With its luscious sauce and customizable nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow our simple steps, and prepare to be amazed by this plant-based delight!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest