Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Cashew Sauce: A Light and Flavorful Meal

Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Cashew Sauce is a colorful, nutrient-packed dish full of tender-crisp vegetables and al dente pasta. The rich, creamy cashew sauce provides a dairy-free “cheesy” texture that coats every bite perfectly. Quick to prepare, this vibrant pasta is both satisfying and wholesome, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dairy-Free Creaminess – Cashew sauce adds rich, velvety texture without dairy.
Packed with Vegetables – Zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and cherry tomatoes for color and nutrition.
Quick and Easy – Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable Pasta – Works with gluten-free or whole-grain pasta.
Fresh and Bright Flavors – Lemon juice and herbs brighten the dish.
Family-Friendly – Light yet filling, appealing to both vegans and non-vegans.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

8 oz pasta – Spaghetti, penne, or your favorite type (gluten-free if desired).
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing vegetables.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons – Fresh and tender.
1 bell pepper, sliced – Adds sweetness and color.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Sweet, juicy bursts.
1 cup broccoli florets – Crunchy and nutrient-rich.
1 cup snap peas – Crisp and bright green.
Salt and pepper – To taste.

For the Creamy Cashew Sauce:

1 cup raw cashews – Soaked 4+ hours for creaminess.
1/2 cup water – Adjust for desired sauce consistency.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast – For cheesy flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds brightness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For depth of flavor.
Salt and pepper – To taste.

Optional Garnishes:

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped – For color and aroma.
Red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Sauce
Soak cashews at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and blend with water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust water for desired creaminess.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and snap peas; cook 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Add cherry tomatoes for the last 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet with vegetables. Pour cashew sauce over the pasta and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Soak Cashews Properly – Soft cashews blend smoothly for a creamy sauce.
Don’t Overcook Vegetables – Keep them crisp for texture and color.
Adjust Sauce Consistency – Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if necessary.
Make Ahead Option – Sauce can be prepared the day before and stored in the fridge.
Pasta Type Flexibility – Gluten-free or whole-grain pasta works equally well.
Spice Variation – Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a flavor twist.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~400 per serving (estimate, depending on pasta type and portion)

Perfect Pairings

Garlic Bread – Classic side to complement pasta.
Simple Green Salad – Lightens the meal with fresh greens.
Lemon Water or Sparkling Water – Brightens flavors.
Toasted Pine Nuts – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.

Ideal Occasions

Weeknight Dinner – Quick, wholesome, and satisfying.
Lunch Meal Prep – Keeps well in the fridge for reheating.
Family-Friendly Meals – Appeals to adults and kids alike.
Vegan Gatherings – Delicious plant-based option for guests.

Storage & Serving Tips

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently – Microwave or warm on stove with a splash of water.
Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving – Preserves color and aroma.
Optional Nuts – Add pine nuts or cashews for extra texture when serving.

Creative Variations to Try

Add Mushrooms or Asparagus – Boost flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Cashew Sauce – Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Pasta Swap – Try linguine, fettuccine, or gluten-free options.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensifies flavor for a tangy twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sauce Too Thick – Add reserved pasta water gradually until smooth.
Vegetables Too Soft – Cook fewer minutes; retain slight bite.
Sauce Lumps – Ensure cashews are fully soaked before blending.
Pasta Clumping – Toss with sauce immediately after cooking.

Why This Recipe Works

This vegan pasta primavera works because the creamy cashew sauce binds the pasta and vegetables without needing dairy. Sautéing vegetables quickly preserves their texture and color, while tossing them with al dente pasta ensures even flavor distribution. A splash of pasta water adjusts the sauce to the perfect consistency, giving a silky, cohesive dish. Approximately 400 calories per serving make it a filling yet healthy plant-based meal.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Pasta Primavera with Creamy Cashew Sauce is a quick, wholesome, and colorful meal that satisfies both taste and nutrition. Its bright, fresh vegetables combined with rich, dairy-free sauce make it perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or special vegan meals. With versatile garnishes and optional flavor twists, this recipe is both easy and elegantly flavorful.