Plant Based Pasta (Recipes)

Looking for delicious and healthy pasta options that are also friendly to your plant-based lifestyle? Look no further! In this article, we will explore a collection of mouthwatering plant-based pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Whether you follow a vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diet, these recipes offer a wide range of options to suit your preferences. You’ll discover a world of flavors and textures, from meatless pasta noodles to sustainable pasta choices.

Indulge in vegan-friendly pasta dishes that are packed with flavor, using plant-based noodle recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. From rich and savory red sauces to creamy and comforting pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone.

Join us on this culinary adventure and discover the endless possibilities of plant-based pasta!

Key Takeaways:

Plant-based pasta recipes offer delicious and healthy options for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
You can enjoy a variety of flavors and textures with meatless pasta noodles and vegan-friendly pasta dishes.
Gluten-free pasta alternatives are available for those with dietary restrictions.
Exploring sustainable pasta choices supports a healthy lifestyle and the environment.
These plant-based pasta recipes are perfect for any meal, satisfying your pasta cravings while nourishing your body.

Table of Contents

How to Cook Dried Pasta Properly

Cooking dried pasta may seem simple, but there are a few key steps to ensure the best results. Follow these tips and techniques to achieve perfectly cooked pasta every time:

Wait for a rolling boil: Before adding the pasta to the pot, make sure the water is at a rolling boil. This ensures that the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t become mushy.
Add salt to the water: To enhance the flavor of the pasta, add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water. This will season the pasta from within.
Check the pasta a minute before the stated cook time: To avoid overcooking the pasta, start checking for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cook time on the package. The pasta should be al dente, with a slight bite to it.
Save pasta water: Before draining the cooked pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water. This water can be used to thin out sauces, add flavor, and help them cling better to the pasta.

By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked dried pasta that is al dente and delicious. Now, let’s move on to exploring some mouthwatering plant-based pasta recipes!

Red Sauces + Meaty Pastas

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of vegan red pasta sauces and meaty plant-based pasta dishes. These recipes offer hearty and satisfying options that are packed with flavor, perfect for those seeking a meat-like experience without any animal products.

One popular dish is the Vegan Red Lentil Bolognese, which uses lentils as the main ingredient to create a meaty texture and taste. Combined with a flavorful tomato-based sauce and aromatic herbs, this bolognese is a crowd-pleasing favorite.

“This vegan bolognese is so delicious and satisfying! You won’t even miss the meat. The lentils give it the perfect meaty texture, and the flavors are incredible.”

If you’re looking for a spicy and bold option, the Spicy Pasta Arrabbiata is a great choice. Made with tangy tomatoes, garlic, chili flakes, and a touch of fresh basil, this dish adds a flavorful kick to your pasta.

With these recipes, you can enjoy the deliciousness of meaty pasta dishes while following a vegan lifestyle. The combination of lentils, mushrooms, and tomatoes creates a satisfying and hearty experience that will leave you wanting more.

Sample Recipe: Vegan Red Lentil Bolognese

Ingredients	Instructions
1 cup red lentils 1 onion, finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 carrot, finely chopped 1 celery stalk, finely chopped 1 can of crushed tomatoes 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried basil Salt and pepper to taste	In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened. Add the red lentils to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the lentils are well coated with the vegetable mixture. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the vegan red lentil bolognese over your favorite pasta and enjoy!

Ingredients

Instructions

1 cup red lentils
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 can of crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened.
Add the red lentils to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the lentils are well coated with the vegetable mixture.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the vegan red lentil bolognese over your favorite pasta and enjoy!

Elevate your plant-based pasta experience with these delicious vegan red sauces and meaty pasta dishes. The combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your cravings without compromising your dietary preferences. So go ahead and enjoy a hearty and flavorful bowl of vegan bolognese or a spicy arrabbiata pasta – you won’t be disappointed!

Creamy Pastas

Treat yourself to creamy and comforting plant-based pasta dishes. These recipes will satisfy your cravings for a velvety and luscious pasta sauce, all while being vegan-friendly and dairy-free.

Vegan Spaghetti with “Meat” Sauce

Indulge in a classic favorite with a plant-based twist. This recipe combines al dente spaghetti noodles with a savory “meat” sauce made from ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and tomatoes. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more.

Vegan Gnocchi & Sauce

Experience the pillowy softness of vegan gnocchi smothered in a creamy plant-based sauce. Made with cashews, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast, this sauce creates a luxurious texture and adds a savory flavor to the dish. The combination of tender gnocchi and rich sauce makes for a delightful pasta experience.

With these recipes, you can enjoy the indulgence of creamy pasta without the need for dairy. Whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to explore new flavors, these plant-based options will satisfy your cravings for a delicious and comforting meal.

Vegetable-Forward Pastas

Celebrate the flavors of fresh vegetables with vegetable-forward pasta recipes. Whether you’re a vegan, a pasta lover, or simply looking to incorporate more veggies into your diet, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From pasta primavera to pasta with roasted vegetables and sautéed greens, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Roasted Tomato Spaghetti with Spinach and Chickpeas

This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines roasted tomatoes, sautéed spinach, and protein-packed chickpeas for a delicious and nutritious pasta dish. The sweetness of the roasted tomatoes complements the earthy flavors of spinach and chickpeas, creating a satisfying meal that is both hearty and wholesome.

Vegan Spring Pasta Bake

Indulge in the freshness of spring with this delightful pasta bake. Packed with seasonal vegetables like asparagus and sweet corn, this dish showcases the bounty of nature. The combination of tender pasta, roasted vegetables, and a savory sauce is a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

A Rainbow of Flavors

When it comes to vegetable-forward pastas, the possibilities are endless. You can create a colorful dish by combining a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. The vibrant colors and textures of these veggies not only make the pasta visually appealing but also provide essential nutrients for a well-balanced meal.

“Nourish your body with vegetable-forward pastas that are both delicious and nutritious.”

Benefits of Vegetable Pasta

Vegetable pasta recipes offer numerous benefits. They provide a great way to include more vegetables in your diet, ensuring a good intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Additionally, they are often lower in calories and higher in nutrients compared to traditional pasta dishes. By swapping out a portion of the pasta with nutrient-rich veggies, you’ll be creating a more balanced and wholesome meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegetable Pasta

Nutrient	Benefits
Fiber	Aids digestion and promotes satiety
Vitamins and Minerals	Provides essential nutrients for overall health
Antioxidants	Protects against cell damage and supports a healthy immune system
Low Calorie	Helps with weight management and promotes a healthy body weight

By incorporating vegetable-forward pastas into your repertoire, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious flavors while reaping the nutritional benefits of fresh produce. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a health-conscious individual, these recipes are a must-try for a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Herb-Based Pastas

Elevate your pasta dishes with the bright and aromatic flavors of herbs. Adding fresh herbs to your pasta brings a burst of freshness and a vibrant aroma that takes your meal to the next level. Whether you prefer a creamy lemon asparagus pasta or a zesty vegan pesto pasta, these herb-based recipes will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests.

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Indulge in the creamy and tangy goodness of this lemon-infused pasta dish. Featuring tender asparagus spears, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice, this recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The addition of fresh herbs like basil and parsley adds an earthy and fragrant note to the dish.

Fresh and Herby Summer Pasta

Embrace the flavors of summer with this light and refreshing herb-based pasta. This dish combines cherry tomatoes, crisp vegetables, and a medley of fresh herbs to create a satisfying and vibrant meal. The aromatic blend of basil, parsley, and dill adds a tantalizing twist to the classic pasta recipe.

“The perfect herb-based pasta is about finding the right balance of flavors. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and savory ingredients creates a harmonious and refreshing dish. It’s a celebration of the natural flavors that make herb-based pastas so irresistible.”

Whether you’re craving a vegan pesto pasta or a simple pasta with fresh herbs, these herb-based recipes offer a delicious way to elevate your pasta dishes. The combination of aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and a variety of ingredients will leave you yearning for more. Explore the vibrant world of herb-based pastas and discover a new favorite recipe for your next meal.

Pasta Salads

Stay cool and refreshed with flavorful plant-based pasta salad recipes. Whether you’re looking for vegan options, gluten-free alternatives, or simply delicious plant-based pasta salad recipes, we’ve got you covered. These vibrant and satisfying dishes are perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a light and refreshing meal on a hot day.

Combine pasta with fresh vegetables, tangy dressings, and colorful ingredients to create tantalizing pasta salads that will impress your taste buds. Try these two crowd-pleasing recipes:

Tahini Pasta Salad

This vegan pasta salad takes a Middle Eastern twist with its creamy tahini dressing. Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and protein-packed chickpeas, it’s a satisfying and refreshing dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:	Instructions:
8 ounces gluten-free pasta 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup cucumber, diced 1 cup bell peppers, diced 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved 1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup tahini 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tablespoons water Salt and pepper to taste	Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, olives, chickpeas, parsley, and mint. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables and pour the tahini dressing over the top. Toss until well combined. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

8 ounces gluten-free pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, olives, chickpeas, parsley, and mint.
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables and pour the tahini dressing over the top. Toss until well combined.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Vegan Street Corn Pasta Salad

Put a flavorful twist on a classic summer dish with this vegan street corn pasta salad. It features a creamy and tangy dressing, smoky roasted corn, and a burst of freshness from the cilantro. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:	Instructions:
8 ounces gluten-free pasta 2 cups roasted corn kernels 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Salt and pepper to taste	Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine the roasted corn, jalapeno, red onion, and cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, lime juice, nutritional yeast, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta to the corn mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss until well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

8 ounces gluten-free pasta
2 cups roasted corn kernels
1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the roasted corn, jalapeno, red onion, and cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, lime juice, nutritional yeast, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta to the corn mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss until well coated.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

These vibrant and delicious pasta salads are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a light summer meal. Feel free to get creative and customize them with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or dressings. Enjoy the refreshing flavors of these plant-based pasta salads and make the most of the summer season!

Conclusion

In conclusion, plant-based pasta offers a world of flavorful possibilities for those following vegan and vegetarian diets. With a wide array of recipes to choose from, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying pasta dishes without compromising your dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving a creamy sauce, a vegetable-forward creation, or a gluten-free alternative, there are options available to suit every taste.

By incorporating plant-based pasta into your meals, you can support a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. These recipes provide a wealth of nutrients from fresh vegetables, legumes, and herbs, ensuring that your pasta dishes are not only tasty but also nutritious. Plus, opting for plant-based options helps reduce your environmental footprint and promotes a more sustainable food system.

So why not get creative in the kitchen and try out some plant-based pasta recipes? From indulgent and creamy sauces to light and refreshing pasta salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Discover new flavor combinations, experiment with different ingredients, and find your favorite plant-based pasta dishes that will satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.

FAQ

What is plant-based pasta?

Plant-based pasta refers to pasta that is made from ingredients derived from plants, without any animal products. It is a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional pasta.

Are there gluten-free options for plant-based pasta?

Yes, there are gluten-free alternatives available for plant-based pasta. These options are made with alternative flours such as brown rice flour, quinoa flour, or chickpea flour.

What are some healthy pasta options?

Some healthy pasta options include whole wheat pasta, lentil pasta, chickpea pasta, and vegetable-based pasta. These choices offer higher levels of fiber and protein compared to traditional pasta.

Can plant-based pasta be used as a meat substitute in recipes?

Yes, plant-based pasta can be used as a meat substitute in recipes. Ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and textured vegetable protein can be used to create a meaty texture and taste in pasta dishes.

Are plant-based pasta dishes sustainable?

Yes, plant-based pasta dishes are considered sustainable as they use fewer resources compared to meat-based dishes. By choosing ingredients derived from plants, it reduces the environmental impact associated with meat production.

Are there any vegan-friendly pasta dishes?

Yes, there are many vegan-friendly pasta dishes available. Recipes often use plant-based ingredients like cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and vegetables to create creamy and flavorful sauces.

What are some vegetarian pasta options?

Vegetarian pasta options include dishes that are made without meat but may still contain dairy or eggs. However, with plant-based pasta, it is possible to enjoy vegetarian pasta dishes that are entirely free of animal products.

How can I incorporate more vegetables into my pasta dishes?

You can incorporate more vegetables into your pasta dishes by adding ingredients like roasted tomatoes, spinach, chickpeas, asparagus, sweet corn, or any other vegetables of your choice. These additions not only add flavor but also increase the nutritional value of your meal.

How can herbs enhance the flavor of pasta dishes?

Herbs like basil, parsley, and dill can add a burst of freshness and aroma to your pasta dishes. They can be used in sauces, as a garnish, or mixed directly with the pasta to infuse the flavors throughout the dish.

Are there any refreshing pasta salad recipes I can try?

Yes, there are plenty of refreshing plant-based pasta salad recipes available. These recipes often include fresh vegetables, tangy dressings, and colorful ingredients that are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and satisfying meal on a hot summer day.

Why should I choose plant-based pasta?

Plant-based pasta is a versatile and delicious option for vegan and vegetarian diets. It offers a wide variety of recipes and flavors while supporting a sustainable and healthy lifestyle. It is a great way to enjoy flavorful and satisfying pasta dishes without compromising your dietary preferences.