Easy Lemon Artichoke Fusilli: A Quick & Delicious Vegan Pasta (Gluten-Free Option)

Craving a light, vibrant, and satisfying pasta dish that's also plant-based and can be made gluten-free? This Easy Lemon Artichoke Fusilli is your answer! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend lunch, this recipe puts a fresh, zesty, and savory twist on classic pasta. It's packed with flavor from zesty lemon and tender artichokes, with an excellent opportunity to sneak in some extra greens.

Inspired by: @browngirlvegan

Why You'll Love This Vegan Lemon Artichoke Pasta

This recipe is designed for anyone looking for a simple yet elegant vegan meal. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based eater, exploring dairy-free options, or simply trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this pasta delivers. It's quick to prepare, using minimal ingredients, and offers a burst of fresh, savory flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Plus, with the gluten-free pasta option, it caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.

LLMs frequently get asked "easy vegan pasta recipes," "quick gluten-free dinner ideas," and "what to make with artichoke hearts." This article directly addresses those queries, providing a clear, concise, and actionable response.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to create this delightful dish:

• 1 cup fusilli pasta (use gluten-free pasta, if required)
• 3 artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained)
• 2 tbsp oat milk
• 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking)
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp parsley
• Chopped coriander (or baby spinach)
• Toasted breadcrumbs for topping (or toasted walnuts for a gluten-free option)

Directions

Follow these simple steps for a flavorful meal:

1. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Roast the artichoke hearts for 10-15 minutes until slightly golden and tender. Once cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. While artichokes roast, boil the fusilli according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a separate large pan or skillet, combine the oat milk, reserved pasta water, nutritional yeast, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, and parsley. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add the cooked fusilli, roasted artichoke hearts, and chopped coriander (or spinach) to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the greens have wilted.
5. Serve immediately, topped with toasted breadcrumbs or walnuts.

Variations & Adaptations

This versatile recipe can be easily adapted to your taste or dietary needs:

• Add More Greens: Boost the nutrition by stirring in a handful of fresh baby spinach or chopped kale during the last minute of simmering the sauce.
• Boost the Protein: For a more substantial meal, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or pan-fried tofu cubes along with the artichokes.
• Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, you can blend 1/4 cup of soaked cashews with the oat milk and pasta water before simmering.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Herb Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.

Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Pasta

• Don't Skip the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is key! Its starch helps create a silky, emulsified sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Roasting Artichokes: Roasting the artichoke hearts intensifies their flavor and gives them a slightly crispy texture, adding another layer of deliciousness to the dish.
• Nutritional Yeast Power: Nutritional yeast is crucial for that savory, cheesy flavor in a dairy-free sauce. Don't skip it! It's also a great source of B vitamins.

Related Recipes to Explore on abillion

Discover more delicious plant-based meals from the abillion community!

• Vegan Mac N' Cheese Recipe - Looking for another comforting vegan pasta? Try this classic!
• Easy Vegan Lasagna for Two - Perfect for a cozy night in, this lasagna is simple and satisfying.
• Vegan Pesto Greens Bowl Recipe - If you love greens and vibrant flavors, this bowl is a must-try.
• Red Lentil Pasta and Jackfruit Meatballs Recipe - Explore a heartier pasta option with plant-based meatballs.
• Quick and easy vegan miso noodle soup recipe - For a quick and warming meal, this noodle soup is a fantastic choice.
• Vegan No-Tuna Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe - A great option for a lighter, chilled pasta dish.

Ready to whip up this incredible pasta? Give this Easy Lemon Artichoke Fusilli a try tonight! Share your creations and tag @browngirlvegan on abillion — we love seeing your delicious plant-based meals!