This Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta brings together the delicate flavor of cauliflower with the richness of a creamy, dairy-free sauce. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory taste, making this dish a perfect option for anyone looking for a plant-based comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The sauce is velvety smooth and coats the pasta perfectly, while the cauliflower gives it a nice texture and earthy flavor. It’s easy to make, super satisfying, and works as a great weeknight meal or a special dinner for guests. Plus, it’s versatile—add veggies, herbs, or even a sprinkle of vegan cheese for extra flair.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup vegetable broth
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1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
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1/4 cup nutritional yeast
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Salt and pepper to taste
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8 oz pasta (any shape)
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
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Cook pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the cauliflower begins to soften.
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Add vegetable broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
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Remove from heat and use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree until smooth and creamy.
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Stir in almond milk, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Toss the pasta with the cauliflower alfredo sauce until well coated.
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Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Simple Yet Flavorful Dish
At its core, the dish features a creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and cheese, with a touch of nutmeg to enhance the richness of the sauce. The real star of the recipe, however, is the cauliflower. By adding cauliflower to the boiling pasta in the final stages of cooking, you not only get the benefit of a vegetable boost but also achieve a lighter, glossier sauce that’s still creamy but not as heavy as the traditional version.
The dish is also incredibly easy to prepare. It requires only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a weeknight meal or even a special dinner when you’re craving comfort food but want to avoid the heaviness of a traditional Alfredo sauce. The cauliflower adds a slight earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess of the sauce, making it both comforting and refreshing.
Why Cauliflower?
Cauliflower is a fantastic vegetable to incorporate into dishes like this, as it has a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces. When blended into the Alfredo sauce, it creates a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. This makes the dish a little healthier without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Cauliflower is also packed with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a comforting meal.
Perfect Pairings for Your Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
While this dish is delicious on its own, you can elevate it even further by pairing it with a few sides. One great option is an arugula salad. The peppery bite of arugula complements the creamy pasta perfectly, and a simple dressing of lemon juice, salt, pepper, extra-virgin olive oil, and crushed red pepper adds a nice balance of brightness and heat.
If you want to add some protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy roasted chickpeas could be a perfect addition. These proteins not only complement the flavors but also add a satisfying texture to the meal.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta is a great alternative to the traditional Alfredo recipe. It offers all the creaminess and indulgence of the original while being a bit lighter and healthier. The cauliflower gives the sauce a glossy texture without being too heavy, and the flavor is enhanced with the nutmeg, making it a rich but not overwhelming dish.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to make a comforting pasta dish that’s a little less indulgent but still packed with flavor. It’s also a wonderful option for those looking to eat more vegetables without sacrificing taste or texture. Plus, it’s a great way to use cauliflower in a creative, new way that even the most cauliflower-averse eaters will enjoy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta is a fresh take on the beloved classic. By incorporating cauliflower into the sauce, this dish becomes lighter but still just as creamy and satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and health, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly dinner rotation.
Whether you’re serving it on a weeknight or making it for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With its rich, creamy sauce and the added nutrition of cauliflower, it’s a meal that everyone will love. So, give this recipe a try, and you’ll see just how easy it is to create a dish that’s both comforting and good for you.