Creamy Cashew Alfredo Pasta: A Dairy-Free Indulgence
There’s something magical about creamy Alfredo sauce that transforms pasta into the ultimate comfort food. When I was younger, Alfredo was my go-to order at restaurants—luxuriously creamy, rich, and satisfying. But after shifting to a more plant-focused lifestyle, I wanted to recreate that same indulgent experience, minus the dairy. Enter this Creamy Cashew Alfredo Pasta—a recipe that’s not just a substitute but a showstopper in its own right.
Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, this pasta delivers everything you love about traditional Alfredo while being lighter on the tummy and kinder to your health. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or just curious about plant-based alternatives, you’re going to love this dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly: Perfect for those avoiding dairy without sacrificing creaminess.
- Nutrient-Packed: Cashews bring healthy fats and a touch of protein to the table.
- Easy to Make: With just a blender and a few pantry staples, dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Add veggies or protein for a unique twist.
Ingredients
Makes 4 serverings
For the Cashew Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups unsweetened plant-based milk (oat or almond works well)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta of choice (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 cup spinach leaves (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fats: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe mimics the creamy texture of traditional Alfredo by leveraging cashews’ natural creaminess and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The result is a sauce that’s rich, smooth, and utterly satisfying, all without a drop of dairy.
Additional Tips & FAQs
- Can I Make This Nut-Free?: Yes! Replace cashews with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess.
- Pairing Suggestions: This sauce also works wonderfully over roasted vegetables or as a dip for crusty bread.
Let’s Stay Connected!
If you try this Creamy Cashew Alfredo Pasta, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram at @BlomBites or leave a comment below with your thoughts. Your feedback inspires me to keep creating recipes you’ll love.
