Creamy Vegan Spinach and Basil Pasta

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If you're looking for a quick and flavorful vegan pasta dish, this creamy spinach and basil pasta is the perfect recipe. With a blend of fresh ingredients and a rich, creamy sauce, it's a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare. This recipe serves two, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner for two or a delightful lunch. Let's dive into the details!

Ingredients:

3 oz fresh spinach (100g) (or frozen, see note below)

Large handful of basil

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tablespoons lemon juice (about one lemon)

1 cup coconut milk

3 tablespoons nutritional yeast

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

7 oz your favorite pasta (about 200g)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you're using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly. If you're using frozen spinach, make sure it's thawed and drained to remove excess water. Add the spinach, basil, crushed garlic, lemon juice, coconut milk, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high power for about 30 seconds, or until the sauce is completely smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. The combination of fresh spinach and basil with the richness of coconut milk and the tang of lemon juice creates a beautifully balanced sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Sauce

Transfer the blended sauce to a large pan and bring it to medium heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly thicker. The sauce is naturally thin because of the spinach, but don't worry—it's meant to be light yet full of flavor. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, umami note that complements the freshness of the spinach and basil.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. You can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne. Once the pasta is cooked to your desired level of doneness, drain it well.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy spinach and basil sauce. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, making each bite incredibly flavorful.

Step 5: Serve

Divide the pasta between two bowls. For an extra touch, top the pasta with additional basil leaves, a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat, or your favorite vegan cheese. These toppings add a burst of color and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Notes:

Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before blending. This prevents the sauce from becoming too watery.

Nutritional Yeast: This ingredient is key for adding a cheesy flavor to the sauce. If you're new to nutritional yeast, it's a deactivated yeast that’s rich in vitamins, particularly B12, and is commonly used in vegan cooking.

Conclusion

This creamy vegan spinach and basil pasta is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of fresh spinach, basil, and coconut milk creates a light yet creamy sauce that's perfect for coating your favorite pasta. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy it as a delightful meal for two, and don't forget to customize it with your favorite toppings for an extra special touch. Happy cooking!

made with love<3

Interested in more vegan recipes? Click here.