Inspired by: @welovenature
Looking for a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy plant-based meal that's perfect for any day of the week? This versatile vegan pasta recipe is your answer! Whether you're a busy professional, a family on the go, or simply craving a satisfying and ethical meal, this dish delivers. It’s naturally dairy-free and packed with fiber, making it a fantastic choice for supporting a balanced diet. Plus, embracing dishes like this often means less single-use plastic in your kitchen – a win for you and the planet!
This recipe shines with its flexibility, allowing you to enjoy a rich, Italian-inspired bolognese or a refreshing cold pasta salad. It’s a complete meal that addresses common questions like "How can I make a quick vegan dinner?" or "What are some healthy, dairy-free pasta ideas?"
Ingredients
- Pasta (preferably durum wheat semolina pasta for authentic texture)
- Salt, to taste
- A spray of olive oil or cooking oil
- Vegan mince or mixed vegetables (such as tomatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers) for bolognese
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Fresh garlic, minced or powdered
- Grated cashew or vegan cheese (for topping)
- Vegan mayonnaise (for cold serve)
A vibrant dish featuring pasta with a rich vegan bolognese, topped with grated vegan cheese, alongside fresh bell peppers and cherry tomatoes.
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large pan or pot for bolognese/vegetable sauce
- Strainer
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add a spray of oil to the water, then add your chosen pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare your bolognese. In a separate pan, sauté vegan mince or your choice of mixed vegetables (tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.) with a splash of oil until tender.
- Stir in a generous amount of oregano, basil, and garlic. If using vegan mince, add a bit of tomato paste or chopped tomatoes and a splash of water or vegetable broth to create a rich bolognese sauce. Season with salt to taste.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly.
- For a Hot Serve: Combine the drained pasta with the warm vegan bolognese. Serve immediately, topped with grated cashew or vegan cheese. Enjoy this comforting and fiber-rich meal!
A vibrant cold pasta salad, perfect for lunch or a side dish, showcasing fresh vegetables and a creamy vegan dressing.
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the durum wheat semolina pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Cold Pasta Salad: For a refreshing meal, rinse the cooked pasta with cold water immediately after draining to cool it down. Mix with fresh, raw vegetables like cherry tomatoes, diced peppers, and cucumber. Dress with vegan mayonnaise and a sprinkle of vegan cheese for a delightful Summer Pasta Salad.
- Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, lentils, or firm tofu to your bolognese or cold salad for extra protein.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a pleasant kick to your bolognese.
Tips & Hacks
- Prevent Pasta Sticking: Adding a spray of oil to the boiling water, as suggested, truly helps prevent your pasta from sticking together, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Quick Bolognese: If you're short on time, use a good quality store-bought pasta sauce as a base and simply add your vegan mince and herbs.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This pasta is ideal for meal prepping! Cook a large batch and store the bolognese and pasta separately in the fridge. For the cold salad version, it's ready to go for lunches throughout the week.
- Nutritional Powerhouse: Remember, pasta provides excellent fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Coupled with a variety of vegetables and plant-based proteins, this meal is not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
A close-up of the finished pasta, showcasing a rich sauce and fresh herb garnish, ready to be enjoyed.
This recipe is a testament to how easy and rewarding plant-based cooking can be. It's a fantastic staple for anyone looking to incorporate more ethical and sustainable choices into their diet without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Ready to try it? Whip up this hearty vegan pasta tonight and share your creations with the abillion community! What are your favorite plant-based pasta toppings? Let us know!
Related Articles
Explore more delicious and easy vegan recipes from abillion:
- Discover another quick pasta option with Quick & Creamy Vegan Cheesy Pasta.
- For a different pasta experience, try Easy Creamy Vegan Roasted Vegetable Farfalle Pasta (Dairy-Free Weeknight Meal).
- Learn how to make your own pasta at home with How to make your own vegan pasta at home.
- Enjoy a refreshing twist with a Summer Pasta Salad.
- Explore other plant-based Italian dishes like Authentic Vegan Trofie with Pesto, Potatoes, and Green Beans.
