Easy Vegan Pasta

Whenever I think of a quick meal that satisfies my cravings, Easy Vegan Pasta comes to mind. It’s a dish that I often whip up during busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet light. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the fact that it requires only a handful of ingredients. I remember the first time I made it; I had some leftover vegetables in the fridge and a jar of marinara sauce. With just those ingredients, I created a quick meal that surprised my taste buds. The pasta dances with the vibrant flavors of the roasted vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy sauce made of hummus. It’s easy, it’s vegan, and it’s bursting with flavor!

Everything You Need for Easy Vegan Pasta

When it comes to making Easy Vegan Pasta, the ingredient list is both simple and effective. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish together. The combination of pasta, marinara sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound dry pasta (any type you like): Pasta is the heart of this dish. It serves as the base that holds all the delicious flavors together.
• 1 25 oz. jar marinara sauce (most are vegan, but check the label for no added sugar, too): This sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements the pasta perfectly.
• 1 pound assorted vegetables, like zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion: Fresh vegetables not only add flavor but also color and nutrition.
• Olive oil, as needed: Olive oil enhances the roasting process and adds a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish.
• 1/4 cup prepared hummus: This ingredient gives the sauce a creamy texture and boosts its nutritional value.
• Salt, to taste: Simple but essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Easy Vegan Pasta

Cooking Easy Vegan Pasta is a breeze, and I love how quickly it comes together. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious meal:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This is crucial, as the salt not only flavors the pasta but also helps it cook properly.
2. While the water is heating up, chop your assorted vegetables such as zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
3. Arrange the chopped vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss everything to coat well.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven at 400ºF until tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
5. Once the water is boiling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.
6. When the pasta is cooked, drain the water in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a little pasta water, just in case you need it later.
7. In the same large pot you used for the pasta, reduce the heat to medium and add the marinara sauce and hummus. Stir the two together to create a creamy sauce. I usually use two heaping spoonfuls of hummus, which is roughly 1/4 cup, but feel free to adjust based on your preference.
8. Add the roasted vegetables and cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
9. Season to taste with additional salt, if needed. Allow everything to warm through for a minute or two before serving.
10. Serve the Easy Vegan Pasta warm. If desired, top it with some cashew Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations

There are so many ways to add your personal touch to Easy Vegan Pasta. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

• Storage: Leftover Easy Vegan Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish! Just make sure to store it in a suitable container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
• Pairing: This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. It makes for a complete meal!
• Adding protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked chickpeas or lentils to increase protein content.
• Seasonal ingredients: Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what’s in season for the freshest flavors.

Serving Ideas for Easy Vegan Pasta

Serving Easy Vegan Pasta can be just as exciting as making it! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful dish:

• Lunch or Dinner: This pasta is perfect for both lunch and dinner. It’s light enough for lunch but filling enough for dinner.
• Casual gatherings: Bring it to potlucks or serve it at casual gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Garnish: Consider garnishing your pasta with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Seasonal serving: In warmer months, serve it cold as a pasta salad. Just let it cool and toss in a dressing!
• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, consider repurposing them by mixing with some fresh greens for a quick salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Easy Vegan Pasta is a delightful meal that highlights the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. I hope you feel inspired to make it yourself, as it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and sauces to find your perfect combination. Enjoy every bite!

Easy Vegan Pasta

The ultimate comfort food for plant-based eaters, Easy Vegan Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings. With just a handful of ingredients, it's a perfect weeknight dinner that comes together in no time. Enjoy this creamy, hearty meal that everyone will love!

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Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound dry pasta any type you like
• 1 25 oz. jar marinara sauce most are vegan, but check the label for no added sugar, too
• 1 pound assorted vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and red onion
• olive oil as needed
• 1/4 cup prepared hummus
• salt to taste

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. While the water is heating up, chop your assorted vegetables.
3. Arrange the chopped vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven at 400ºF until tender.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, drain the water in a colander and set it aside.
6. In the same large pot you used for the pasta, reduce the heat to medium and add the marinara sauce and hummus. Stir to create a creamy sauce.
7. Add the roasted vegetables and cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together.
8. Season to taste with additional salt, if needed.
9. Serve the Easy Vegan Pasta warm. Top with cashew Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

Leftover Easy Vegan Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.

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Meet Juliet Sterling

Creating rich, complex flavors is my obsession, though I am just as passionate about capturing them through the lens. I develop recipes that taste like they simmered all day but are actually achievable for any home cook. I cooked and styled this dish to ensure the flavors are balanced and the presentation inspires you.