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Smoky Vegan Alfredo

This vegan Alfredo features a rich, velvety sauce made from blended cashews, garlic, lemon juice, and smoky paprika, creating a creamy and flavorful dish. The sauce clings beautifully to pasta or vegetables, offering a satisfying, dairy-free alternative with a luscious texture and inviting aroma.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw cashews soaked in water for at least 2 hours
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 cup vegetable broth warm
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adjust to taste
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Drain the soaked cashews and add them to your blender along with minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, and the sauce is light and velvety in texture.
  2. Pour the warm vegetable broth into the blender gradually while blending, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency. It should be silky and pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  3. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more smoked paprika if you want a smokier flavor. Blend briefly to incorporate any adjustments.
  4. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and warm it over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently until heated through. You’ll notice it thickening slightly and developing a fragrant smoky aroma.
  5. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Combine the cooked pasta with the warm Alfredo sauce in the saucepan, tossing gently to coat every strand evenly. The sauce will cling beautifully, creating a luscious, velvety coating.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or sautéed vegetables if desired. Enjoy this smoky, creamy vegan Alfredo hot, with its inviting aroma and satisfying texture.

Notes

Feel free to customize by adding sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or nutritional yeast for extra flavor. This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.