I’ll be honest—there was a time when I thought vegan food was all salads and bland tofu. But that was before I discovered the magic of cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and a good kick of spice. One night, after a long day, I was craving something rich, comforting, and just a little fiery. That’s how this Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta was born. It has since become my go-to recipe whenever I need something that feels indulgent but is still packed with nourishing ingredients.
What I love most about this Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes, to boost the nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the spice level to suit your taste—add more chili flakes for an extra kick or tone it down for a milder experience.
Making this Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta is a breeze. Simply soak the cashews for a few hours or use the quick method of boiling them for 10 minutes. Blend them with garlic, nutritional yeast, and plant milk until smooth, then toss it with your cooked pasta and spices. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that feels like a treat but is entirely plant-based.
This Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at gatherings. It’s a dish that proves vegan food can be rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. So, if you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with goodness, give this Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love a good, comforting pasta dish but want something dairy-free and packed with flavor, this one’s for you. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Creamy Without the Dairy – Thanks to blended cashews and plant milk, you get that luxurious, velvety sauce without any heavy cream.
- Spicy & Flavorful – A touch of chili flakes (or even fresh jalapeño) gives this dish the perfect kick without overwhelming the taste buds.
- Quick & Easy – This comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable – Not a fan of too much heat? Dial it down. Want more protein? Throw in some chickpeas or tofu.
- Completely Vegan – It’s proof that plant-based meals can be just as rich and satisfying as traditional ones.
Health Benefits of This Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta
This pasta isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients:
- Cashews – A great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
- Garlic – Boosts immunity, fights inflammation, and adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Nutritional Yeast – Gives a cheesy taste while providing B vitamins and protein.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta – Offers fiber and complex carbs for lasting energy.
- Chili Flakes – Spices like chili can boost metabolism and improve circulation.
So, while it tastes indulgent, it’s actually doing your body plenty of favors!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta is one of those recipes that fits into so many moments.
- Weeknight Comfort – It’s easy and quick, perfect for those nights when you need something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Date Night – Who needs a fancy restaurant when you can whip up something this delicious at home? Pair it with a glass of wine and you’re set.
- Meal Prep – Make a big batch and have leftovers for lunch the next day. The flavors get even better over time.
- Dinner Parties – Impress your guests with a plant-based dish that even non-vegans will love.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this pasta is a winner every time.
Chef’s Notes: Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta
- Be cautious not to let the garlic brown, as this helps maintain the sauce’s subtle complexity and prevents any bitterness.
- For an extra depth of flavor, allow the tomato paste to caramelize fully before adding the vodka. This step enhances the sauce’s richness.
- If you prefer a milder heat level, start with a smaller amount of crushed chili peppers and adjust gradually to taste.
- Using reserved pasta water is key to achieving a smooth, well-emulsified sauce. Stir it in slowly until the desired consistency is reached.
- To enhance the dish, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
- Pair this pasta with a crisp mixed greens salad or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of plant-based milk or water to loosen the sauce.
- This recipe is highly adaptable—experiment with different herbs like fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley to customize the flavor profile.
Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta
Discover a tantalizing twist on classic pasta with this Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta. Expertly crafted for flavor seekers, this dairy‐free delight blends a splash of vodka with rich tomato and coconut cream, elevated by a subtle chili kick. Perfect for a quick yet gourmet dinner, it offers a harmonious balance of spice and creaminess that will captivate your taste buds. Ideal for healthy, affordable, and customizable meals, this recipe makes every bite a celebration of vibrant, innovative cooking.
4
servings5
minutes25
minutes600
kcal30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Sauce Base
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 small white onion finely chopped
1 tsp freshly minced garlic
3 tbsp robust tomato concentrate
1 oz vodka splash
- Spice and Enrich
1/2 tbsp crushed Calabrian chili peppers in oil
1 tbsp plant-based butter
- Creamy Finish
⅚ cup unsweetened coconut cream mixing 2/3 cup with an extra 2 tablespoons
1/2 cup finely grated vegan parmesan cheese
1/4 cup reserved starchy pasta water
- Pasta and Garnish
pasta enough for 4 generous servings
vegan parmesan extra sprinkle
basil flakes scattering
- Alternative Ingredients
Extra-virgin olive oil – can be replaced with avocado or canola oil.
White onion – substitute with red onion or shallots for a milder taste.
Minced garlic – if sensitive try garlic powder (use 1/4 teaspoon per clove).
Tomato paste – can be swapped with sun-dried tomato puree for a deeper flavor.
Vodka – if unavailable a splash of dry white wine or additional water can be used, though flavor intensity may vary.
Crushed Calabrian chili peppers – use standard red pepper flakes for a similar heat level.
Vegan butter – replace with coconut butter or any non-dairy margarine alternative.
Unsweetened coconut cream – an excellent alternative is homemade cashew cream or a soy-based cream if avoiding nuts.
Vegan parmesan – nutritional yeast sprinkled on top can provide a savory cheesy flavor.
Pasta – for gluten sensitivities choose a gluten-free pasta variety.
Directions
- Boil Pasta – Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil (approximately 5 minutes). Carefully add your chosen pasta and cook until it reaches al dente perfection (about 10 minutes). Remember to reserve around 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining, which will help emulsify your sauce later on.
- Sauté Aromatics – In a nonstick pan over medium heat, warm 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Add the finely chopped half white onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it turns translucent; then gently stir in 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant. Lower the heat if necessary to prevent browning.
- Develop Base – Stir in 3 tablespoons of robust tomato concentrate and let it caramelize lightly for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Pour in a one-ounce splash of vodka and let the mixture simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth transition.
- Spice and Enrich – Sprinkle in 1/2 tablespoon of crushed Calabrian chili peppers (or your choice of red pepper flakes) and add 1 tablespoon of plant-based butter, letting it melt completely for about 1-2 minutes. Next, gently pour in approximately ⅚ cup unsweetened coconut cream and allow the sauce to bubble softly for 3 minutes, building a rich, velvety consistency.
- Integrate and Combine – Gradually fold in 1/2 cup grated vegan parmesan along with the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously for around 1 minute to achieve a luxuriously creamy texture. Toss the cooked pasta directly into the sauce, ensuring every strand is evenly coated, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Final Touches – Plate your dish and garnish with an extra dusting of vegan parmesan and a light scattering of basil flakes to enhance freshness. For an optional upgrade, drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil on top and serve immediately to best enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- colander
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- For optimal flavor, be cautious not to let the garlic brown—this maintains the sauce’s subtle complexity. Pair this pasta with a crisp mixed greens salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to elevate your meal. You can also stir in sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach mid-cooking for an extra burst of color and nutrition. This dish is perfect for a relaxed dinner party or a comforting weekday meal. Enjoy and experiment with additional herbs to suit your palate!
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Vitamin A: 400IU
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQs: Creamy Spicy Vegan Pasta
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, store the sauce and pasta separately. Reheat the sauce gently, adding a bit of pasta water or plant-based milk before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
What can I use instead of vodka?
You can substitute dry white wine for a similar depth of flavor, or simply use additional water or vegetable broth. While vodka enhances the sauce’s texture, the dish will still taste delicious without it.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The sauce is naturally gluten-free. To make the entire dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta variety such as brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea pasta.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your vegan parmesan is nut-free and avoid cashew cream as a substitute for coconut cream. A soy-based cream or oat-based alternative works well.
How spicy is this pasta?
The heat level is moderate but can be adjusted by using more or less chili. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and add gradually to taste.
What’s the best pasta to use for this dish?
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni holds the sauce well, but you can also use spaghetti or fettuccine for a more elegant presentation.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Try adding pan-seared tofu, tempeh, or even a plant-based sausage for extra protein and texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or plant-based milk to loosen the sauce.
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