Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, dreamy dish that’s not only delicious but also completely plant-based? Say hello to our Vegan Sweet Potato Pasta! This vibrant recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavors of garlic and nutritional yeast, creating a sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome delight for your body. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your culinary arsenal. Dive in and discover how to make this irresistible dish that’s sure to impress vegans and non-vegans alike!
Ingredients
- Pasta of choice
- Sweet potatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Spinach
- Nutritional yeast
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potato cubes and cook until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- While the sweet potatoes are cooking, prepare your chosen pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot of salted water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Mince the garlic cloves and sauté them until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add sautéed garlic, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the sweet potato mixture until smooth and creamy, adding a little reserved pasta water or olive oil if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add the sweet potato sauce, stirring to warm through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sweet potato sauce.
- Gently fold in fresh spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt slightly from the heat of the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Serve hot, garnishing with extra nutritional yeast or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, whole grain or gluten-free options can add a nutritious twist. Experiment with shapes like fusilli or penne to hold the sweet potato sauce better.
- Perfectly Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Make sure to cut your sweet potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking. They should be tender but not mushy—aim for a fork-tender consistency.
- Sauté Garlic with Care: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly. You want it to be golden and fragrant, which adds depth to your sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sweet potato sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a drizzle of olive oil to achieve your desired creaminess.
- Fresh Spinach is Key: Adding fresh spinach at the end not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a lovely color and texture. Allow it to wilt slightly to retain its vibrant green hue.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the garnishing! A sprinkle of nutritional yeast or fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish and provide an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein sources like chickpeas or tofu for a heartier meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
