There’s a cozy charm that comes with making pasta at home, and this Vegan Marry Me Pasta is the perfect dish to reignite that passion. Imagine the enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen as sun-dried tomatoes and garlic meld together, creating a symphony of flavors that’s not only comforting but also incredibly sophisticated. I discovered this delightful recipe during a week when I wanted to impress myself—yes, sometimes we deserve to treat ourselves, too!
With its creamy cashew sauce enveloping each piece of pasta, this dish strikes the ideal balance between indulgence and wellness. It offers all the richness you’d expect from a traditional creamy pasta, minus the dairy. Whether you’re hosting a romantic dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this Vegan Marry Me Pasta is designed to impress without the fuss. Dive into this culinary experience that promises to make your heart flutter and your tastebuds sing!
Why is this Marry Me Pasta Recipe a Must-Try?
Unforgettable flavor: The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich, enticing flavor that dances on the palate.
Creamy goodness: Thanks to the creamy cashew sauce, you’ll experience indulgence without dairy, making it perfect for vegan diners.
Easy preparation: Only a few simple steps yield stunning results, proving that home-cooking can be both quick and luxurious.
Impress your guests: This dish is not just comforting; it’s sophisticated enough to wow friends or loved ones on special occasions.
Versatile option: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a fancy feast, this pasta adapts beautifully to any occasion, making meal planning a breeze.
Satisfying and wholesome: With nourishing ingredients, you can enjoy an indulgent dish that also aligns with your health goals.
Marry Me Pasta Recipe Ingredients
Get ready to whip up a comforting dish that will leave hearts swooning!
For the Cashew Sauce
- Cashews – Soak or boil to soften for a creamy base that makes this Marry Me Pasta extra special.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; sauté until fragrant for best flavor.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Water – Helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency for the cashew sauce.
For the Pasta
- Pasta (any shape) – Choose shapes like penne or rigatoni that hold sauce well for a delightful bite.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate and enhance the dish’s overall taste.
For the Flavor
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Provide tangy sweetness and vibrant color that uplift the dish.
- Fresh Basil – Adds an aromatic freshness that enhances the overall flavor of the pasta.
- Tomato Paste – Concentrates the tomato flavors, creating a deeper, richer sauce.
How to Make Marry Me Pasta
-
Soak or Boil Cashews: Begin by soaking or boiling your cashews for about 10 minutes until they are nice and soft. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy texture in your sauce.
-
Blend Cashew Cream: Drain the cashews and blend them with water until smooth and creamy. You want a velvety consistency that becomes the base of your rich sauce.
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions, making sure to reserve a bit of that starchy pasta water before draining.
-
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for around 60 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant and golden.
-
Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cashew cream, tomato paste, and fresh basil to the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.
-
Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: For a hint of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Marry Me Pasta?
Creating a delightful dining experience goes beyond just the main dish; it’s about the complete meal that surrounds it.
-
Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture of garlic bread provides a perfect contrast to the creamy pasta while soaking up every delicious drop of sauce.
-
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring extra depth and a medley of flavors that enhance the meal’s warmth and comfort.
-
Creamy Vegan Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts the soft pasta, adding variety to the meal.
-
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Lightly flavored sparkling water adds a refreshing bubbly element that cleanses the palate between bites of creamy deliciousness.
-
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, a rich, velvety chocolate mousse made with avocado is a decadent yet healthy conclusion, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy.
How to Store and Freeze Marry Me Pasta
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Vegan Marry Me Pasta fresh while still being easy to reheat.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
-
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Marry Me Pasta in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures the best texture when reheating.
-
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Tips for the Best Marry Me Pasta
-
Soak Cashews Properly: Make sure to soak or boil cashews until soft; this is essential for creating a creamy cashew sauce that blends beautifully.
-
Reserve Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency.
-
Adjust Garlic Flavor: For those who prefer mild flavors, feel free to reduce the amount of garlic; this will still keep your Marry Me Pasta delicious.
-
Sauté Carefully: Sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes until fragrant but avoid burning them; even slight browning can affect the sauce’s taste negatively.
-
Experiment with Variations: Try different nuts like blanched almonds or macadamia nuts for unique flavors in your creamy sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Marry Me Pasta meals are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cashew sauce up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture. The pasta can also be pre-cooked and stored separately for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet and toss with the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready to impress in no time, without sacrificing flavor or quality!
Marry Me Pasta Variations
Customize your Vegan Marry Me Pasta to suit your taste and dietary preferences with these delightful twists!
- Nut-Free: Substitute cashews with silken tofu for a creamy sauce without nuts; blend until smooth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta options like brown rice or chickpea pasta for a delicious alternative that fits your needs.
- Creamy Twist: Add a splash of full-fat coconut milk to the cashew sauce for an extra layer of rich creaminess.
- Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh oregano or thyme alongside the basil for a fragrant herb medley that elevates the dish.
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in sautéed spinach or kale before mixing in the pasta to sneak in some vibrant greens and extra nutrients.
- Sundried Tomato Alternatives: Swap sundried tomatoes for marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers for a different flavor complexity.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty heat that complements the creamy sauce.
- Smoky Flavor: Blend in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a tantalizing smoky depth that surprises the palate.
Marry Me Pasta Recipe FAQs
How should I select and prepare cashews for the sauce?
For the best creamy cashew sauce, make sure you choose raw, unsalted cashews. You can soak them in water for at least 4 hours, or if you’re short on time, boil them for about 10 minutes until they’re soft. This step is crucial as it allows the cashews to blend smoothly into a silky texture that will elevate your Vegan Marry Me Pasta.
How should I store leftovers of this dish?
Store any leftover Vegan Marry Me Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge. When ready to eat again, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I freeze Vegan Marry Me Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze your Marry Me Pasta, allow it to cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a little extra water or broth to return that creamy consistency.
What can I do if my cashew sauce turns out too thick?
If your cashew sauce is too thick after blending and cooking, don’t worry! Just add a little bit of the reserved pasta water gradually while stirring on low heat. This liquid is full of starch, which will help loosen the sauce without diluting the flavor, creating the perfect creamy texture for your Marry Me Pasta.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Yes! This Vegan Marry Me Pasta is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and individuals who are lactose intolerant. However, if you have nut allergies, you could substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or cooked cauliflower blended with nutritional yeast, though the flavor and texture may slightly differ.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! To make a gluten-free version of the Marry Me Pasta, simply use gluten-free pasta made from brown rice, quinoa, or chickpeas. Follow the same instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal that fits your dietary needs without sacrificing taste!
Vegan Marry Me Pasta Recipe That Will Steal Hearts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak or boil cashews for about 10 minutes until soft.
- Drain cashews and blend them with water until smooth and creamy.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil, sauté garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for around 60 seconds.
- Lower the heat, add cashew cream, tomato paste, and basil to the skillet, and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing thoroughly, and season with salt and pepper to taste.