Vegan Alfredo Sauce Recipe: Creamy and Dairy-Free

Introduction

This vegan Alfredo sauce recipe is a game-changer for pasta lovers. Creamy, garlicky, and rich, it’s hard to believe this indulgent sauce is completely dairy-free. Made with wholesome plant-based ingredients, it’s perfect for fettuccine, penne, or as a sauce for roasted vegetables.

Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe proves that you don’t need cream or cheese to enjoy a decadent Alfredo sauce. Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and creative variations to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4-6 hours or boiled for 15 minutes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for added depth)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cashews

If you haven’t soaked the cashews overnight, boil them in water for 15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

In a high-speed blender, combine the softened cashews, sautéed garlic, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Step 4: Heat and Serve

Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Serve immediately over pasta, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Blend Thoroughly: A high-speed blender ensures the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and tweak the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
• Soak Cashews Properly: Properly soaked or boiled cashews make blending easier and create a creamier sauce.

Variations

1. Garlic Lovers’ Alfredo

Add an extra clove of garlic for a more robust flavor.

2. Spicy Alfredo

Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

3. Herb-Infused Alfredo

Blend in fresh basil or parsley for a herby twist.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Alfredo sauce is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Fettuccine: A classic pairing for a comforting meal.
• Vegetable Noodles: Toss with zucchini or carrot noodles for a low-carb option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle over broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.