Hey there, fellow foodies! I’m Sarah Lee, your go-to gal for all things deliciously nutritious. Today, I’m going to share one of my sauce recipes that I definitely loved: the Creamy Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce. I am going to guide you on how to make alfredo sauce from scratch. As a dietitian and a mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that not only satisfy the taste buds but also nourish the body and soul. And let me tell you, this Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce ticks all the boxes!
A Nutritious Twist to Alfredo Sauce
The inspiration for this recipe came from a jar of Alfredo sauce gifted by my neighbor, who knows my love for Italian flavors. It quickly became a household favorite, loved not only by me but by my husband and kids as well. With our family’s plant-based diet in mind, I decided to create a vegan version of this beloved sauce.
Creating the recipe was surprisingly simple, taking just 5 minutes from start to finish. To ensure we always have a fresh supply, I started growing basil in our garden. Now, we can enjoy this delicious sauce whenever the craving strikes without relying on store-bought versions.
Nourishing Your Body, One Spoonful at a Time
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition that you and your family will get from this Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this sauce not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body in all the right ways.
- Chickpeas: These legumes are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for longer. They also boast an impressive array of vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, and manganese, essential for energy production and overall well-being.
- Walnuts: Rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, walnuts add a delightful crunch to the sauce while providing a boost of brain-boosting nutrients. They’re also packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
- Nutritional Yeast: Don’t let the name fool you – nutritional yeast is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s a vegan-friendly source of B vitamins, including B12, essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. Plus, it adds a cheesy flavor to the sauce without any dairy!
- Fresh Basil: Aside from its aromatic flavor, basil is loaded with vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a welcome addition to any dish.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Whether you prefer almond, oat, or coconut milk, opting for a non-dairy alternative adds a creamy texture to the sauce without the saturated fat and cholesterol found in traditional dairy products. Plus, it’s fortified with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and a healthy immune system.
Together, these nutrient-rich ingredients come together to create a sauce that not only satisfies your cravings but also supports your overall health and well-being. So go ahead, indulge guilt-free and nourish your body with every delicious spoonful of our Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce!
8-ingredient Creamy Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce
Dive into the world of plant-based deliciousness with this Creamy Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce! Ready in just 5 minutes, this sauce is perfect for pasta, veggies, or as a dip. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with fresh basil flavor. Even non-vegans will be asking for seconds!
4
servings5
minutes0
minutes131
kcal5
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
1 cup Cooked Chickpeas rinsed and drained
1/2 cup Raw Walnuts
1 1/2 tablespoons Nutritional Yeast Flakes
2 Garlic Cloves
1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground
1 1/2 cups Plain Unsweetened Non-Dairy Milk (such as almond or oat milk)
1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves finely chopped and loosely packed
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chickpeas: Substitute with white beans for a different texture.
Walnuts: Replace with cashews for a creamier consistency.
Nutritional Yeast: Use vegan parmesan as an alternative.
Non-Dairy Milk: Swap with coconut milk for a richer flavor.
Fresh Basil: Use dried basil if fresh is unavailable reduce quantity.
Directions
- Blending Ingredients – Combine the chickpeas, walnuts, nutritional yeast, garlic cloves, sea salt, black pepper, and non-dairy milk in a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Creating the Sauce – Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Adding Fresh Basil – Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil leaves until evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Storage Tips – Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Equipment
- high-speed blender
- food processor
- measuring cups and spoons
- cutting board
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 131kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 13.9g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 2IU
- Vitamin C: 6mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 15mg
Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce: Your Next Fave
So there you have it, folks – my secret weapon for whipping up quick and nutritious meals that the whole family will love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce is guaranteed to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the magic unfold one delicious bite at a time!
FAQs – Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Is this sauce suitable for people with nut allergies?
While this sauce contains walnuts, a tree nut, you can easily make it nut-free by substituting the walnuts with roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. This swap maintains the creamy texture and adds a delightful nutty flavor without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Can I freeze this sauce for later use?
Absolutely! Our Vegan Basil Alfredo Sauce freezes well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of non-dairy milk to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I customize this sauce to suit my taste preferences?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a cheesier flavor, add more nutritional yeast or sprinkle in some vegan parmesan. For a hint of tanginess, squeeze in a bit of fresh lemon juice. You can also play around with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your taste.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
While fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor and aroma to the vegan basil Alfredo sauce, you can certainly use dried basil if fresh is unavailable. However, keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent than fresh, so you’ll want to use about half the amount called for in the recipe. Alternatively, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or oregano for a unique twist.
How to thicken Alfredo sauce?
To thicken your Vegan Basil Alfredo sauce, simmer it over low heat to allow some liquid to evaporate. If your on a non-vegetarian diet, stir your sauce in grated Parmesan cheese for added thickness and flavor. Alternatively, you can create a roux by melting butter, adding flour, and whisking in the sauce until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Not feeling having Italian sauce as of the moment? Try out our other non-Italian sauce recipes:
All Natural Vegan Enchilada Sauce
Cooks in 22 minutesDifficulty: EasyGet ready to elevate your enchiladas with this easy, all-natural vegan enchilada sauce! Made from fresh tomatoes and a handful of common ingredients, this sauce is perfect for meal prepping and can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Follow these simple steps to create a rich, flavorful sauce that will make your homemade enchiladas unforgettable!
Sichuan Chili Sauce
Cooks in 42 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the bold flavors of Sichuan with this homemade Spicy Sichuan Sauce recipe! Perfect for enhancing any dish, this sauce combines the heat of chili peppers with the aromatic punch of fresh spices like fennel and cumin. Whether you’re drizzling it over noodles or spicing up your stir-fry, this sauce is sure to impress. Follow our simple steps to create a sauce that keeps your taste buds wanting more.
