Vegan Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta with Cashews and Parsley

Indulging in a bowl of rich, creamy pasta that’s completely dairy-free is an experience you won’t want to miss. This Vegan Creamy Spinach Garlic Pasta with Cashews and Parsley comes together in about an hour, balancing a wonderfully creamy texture with vibrant, fresh flavors. Thanks to roasted garlic and blended cashews, this dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.

Perfect for plant-based eaters, weeknight dinners, or anyone craving a cozy meal, this pasta dish is a great way to enjoy greens in a deliciously creamy format. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it, ensuring a quick dinner option on busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The roasted garlic adds an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Cashews give a creamy texture without dairy.
• Spinach and parsley infuse a refreshing burst of color and nutrients.
• The dish is quick to prepare while still tasting gourmet.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dish:

For the Sauce

• 1 bulb garlic – top sliced off
• 1 ½ cups cashews – soaked for 6-24 hours or 1 hour in boiling water
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast
• 1 cup spinach
• 1 bunch parsley
• Juice from ½ lemon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

For the Pasta

• +3-4 servings cooked pasta of choice (any pasta works here)

Soaked cashews create a smoother sauce.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use almond or sunflower seeds instead of cashews.
• Swap vegetable broth for water in a pinch.
• Nutritional yeast can be omitted for a nut-free option.
• Any leafy green can be used instead of spinach.

How to Make It

Start making this creamy pasta dish with these simple steps.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This will ensure that your garlic roasts evenly, developing a sweet, caramelized flavor.

Roast the garlic

Add the garlic to a baking dish and roast for 40 minutes. Stay nearby to avoid overcooking; you want it golden and soft.

Blend the sauce

Once garlic is done roasting, remove it from the bulb and add it to a blender along with the rest of your sauce ingredients. Blend until smooth and creamy, tasting to adjust seasoning if needed.

Toss and serve

Toss the sauce with your cooked pasta until evenly coated. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, sauce can separate when thawed.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the cashews are fully soaked for the creamiest sauce.
• Don’t skip roasting the garlic; it enhances the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more vegetable broth during blending.
• Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for extra indulgence.
• Enjoy as a comforting dish for family gatherings or special occasions.