Vegan Creamy Lemon Pasta with Peas

This Vegan Creamy Lemon Pasta with Peas is a delightful and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and full of vibrant flavors. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a creamy and tangy meal that’s satisfying and perfect for a light dinner or a quick lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy pasta dish is the ultimate combination of zesty lemon and sweet peas, all brought together with a rich plant-based cream sauce. It’s a wonderfully simple meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The tangy lemon adds a refreshing burst of flavor while the peas provide a subtle sweetness, creating a balanced and delicious meal. It’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a hearty and creamy texture without any dairy.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (250 g) pasta

• 2 tablespoons (40 g) plant-based butter

• 1 medium red onion, chopped

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes

• 1 ½ cups (200 g) frozen peas

• 1 cup (200 ml) plant-based heavy cream alternative

• ⅓ cup plant-based parmesan

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it generously, and cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Reserve 1-2 cups of pasta water before draining.

2. While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large, deep pan and sauté the chopped red onion over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Add the lemon zest and red chili flakes to the pan, followed by the lemon juice. Continue to cook for another minute.

4. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened to your liking.

5. Pour in the plant-based cream and simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.

6. Transfer the cooked pasta into the pan and toss to combine everything thoroughly.

7. Stir in the plant-based parmesan, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For an extra boost of protein, try adding chickpeas or tofu.

• Vegan Cheese Variations: If you don’t have plant-based parmesan, you can substitute with any other vegan cheese you like, or make your own!

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Herb Twist: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an added layer of flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red chili flakes or add some freshly chopped chili for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of plant-based milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.

2. Can I make this dish without plant-based butter?

Yes, you can substitute plant-based butter with olive oil or coconut oil.

3. Is there a substitute for the plant-based cream?

Yes, you can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or any plant-based cream alternative of your choice.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as the creamy sauce may separate when frozen. If you want to freeze leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat with a little extra cream.

5. How can I make the pasta more filling?

You can add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.

6. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used, but you may need to cook them for a slightly shorter amount of time.

7. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more red chili flakes or even some fresh chopped chilies to add more heat to the dish.

8. Can I make this without onion?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of onions or have an allergy, you can skip them or substitute with garlic or shallots.

9. How do I make this recipe richer?

To make the sauce even richer, increase the amount of plant-based cream or add a little bit of vegan cream cheese.

10. What can I serve this pasta with?

This creamy lemon pasta pairs well with a light green salad, roasted veggies, or even some crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

Conclusion

This Vegan Creamy Lemon Pasta with Peas is the perfect comfort food for a busy day or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful, creamy, and refreshing meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a delicious plant-based option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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