Creamy Vegan Cajun Pasta

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal? This Creamy Vegan Cajun Pasta is the perfect blend of spicy, smoky, and creamy goodness.

It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Packed with bold Cajun spices and a luscious dairy-free sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit! Not only is it rich in flavor, but it’s also easy to customize, making it a versatile recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rotini works great)

Cajun Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup (240 ml) canned coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (150 g) cooked vegan sausage, sliced
• 2 cups (300 g) fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step.
2. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. To prevent sticking, toss the pasta lightly with olive oil if it’ll be sitting for a while.

Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
4. Add red and yellow bell peppers, cooking for 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized for extra sweetness.
5. If using cherry tomatoes, add them at this stage for a burst of juicy flavor.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

1. Lower the heat and pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine and create a silky texture.
2. Add nutritional yeast, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon without dripping off too quickly.
4. For added richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of vegan butter at the end of cooking.

Step 4: Combine

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Make sure every piece of pasta is thoroughly covered for maximum flavor.
2. If using add-ins like vegan sausage, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, stir them in and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Spinach will wilt quickly and add a pop of color and nutrients.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for extra flair. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

Tips for Success

• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk to mellow the heat.
• Enhancing Flavor: For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt to the sauce.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Chickpea or lentil pasta can also boost the protein content.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if the sauce thickens too much. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce up to two days in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy evenings. Even novice cooks can master this recipe with ease.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or plant-based protein to make it your own. Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted chickpeas would complement the flavors beautifully.
• Dairy-Free & Vegan: Creamy without any dairy, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal for everyone. The use of coconut milk ensures a rich texture without overwhelming the Cajun spices.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving vegans or omnivores, this dish is universally loved. It’s indulgent enough for special occasions yet simple enough for casual weeknight dinners.

Give this Creamy Vegan Cajun Pasta a try and watch it become a household favorite!

Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or creamy comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts. Let us know how you liked it in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creative add-ins or modifications!