Creamy Vegan Tomato Basil Pasta – Ready in 20 Minutes!
This creamy vegan tomato basil pasta comes together in just 20 minutes using simple pantry staples. It's rich, dairy-free, and perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the guilt.
Why You'll Love This Vegan Tomato Basil Pasta
This creamy vegan tomato basil pasta is a game-changer for plant-based comfort food. It comes together in just 20 minutes using mostly pantry ingredients, so you can have a satisfying dinner on the table even on the busiest nights. The sauce is velvety smooth thanks to a secret ingredient: raw cashews blended with the tomatoes. The result is a rich, dairy-free creaminess that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. Plus, it's naturally gluten-free if you choose your favorite gluten-free pasta.
🛒 Ingredients Checklist
- 8 oz pasta (any shape)
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)(optional)
How to Make Creamy Vegan Tomato Basil Pasta
Pro Tip: No Soaking Required for Cashews
If you have a high-speed blender (like a Vitamix), you don't need to soak the cashews. They'll blend perfectly into a smooth cream. If using a regular blender, soak them in hot water for 15–30 minutes first.
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, make the sauce. Add the raw cashews, crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a splash of water or reserved pasta water until you reach a pourable consistency.
Assembling the Dish
Return the drained pasta to the pot (off the heat). Pour the creamy tomato basil sauce over it and toss gently with tongs until every piece is coated. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until it's silky and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Creamy Vegan Tomato Basil Pasta
🥕Ingredients
Tap to check off as you go
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
📋Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- 2
In a high-speed blender, combine cashews, crushed tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- 3
In the pot, toss drained pasta with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- 4
Season with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.
💡 Pro Tips
- •For a nut-free version, substitute cashews with 1/2 cup canned coconut cream.
- •Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition per serving
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Sauce
The key to a luscious sauce is a high-speed blender. If your blender isn't powerful enough, be sure to soak the cashews in hot water for at least 15 minutes before blending. You can also use coconut cream or silken tofu as a substitute for a creamy texture. For extra flavor, roast the garlic cloves first by sautéing them in olive oil for a minute before adding to the blender.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed broccoli. For added protein, top with grilled chickpeas, vegan meatballs, or sautéed mushrooms. Garlic bread is always a welcome addition. It's also great for meal prep: just store the sauce and pasta separately and combine when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
This creamy vegan tomato basil pasta proves that plant-based eating doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dinner that will please vegans and non-vegans alike. With its silky sauce made from simple ingredients and bold basil flavor, it's sure to become a weeknight staple. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
Written by
Elena HarperI'm Elena, a home cook turned recipe developer. On Cooking Word, I share simple, bold-flavored meals that bring people together.
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