Are you ready to indulge in a rich and creamy sauce that’s not only delicious but also completely vegan? Look no further than this Vegan Cashew Alfredo Sauce! In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a luscious Italian-inspired dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. With its nutty flavor and velvety texture, this sauce is the perfect companion for pasta, roasted veggies, or even as a dip for your favorite snacks. Say goodbye to store-bought sauces filled with preservatives and hello to a wholesome, homemade delight that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this mouthwatering sauce!
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Soak raw cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes prior to preparing the sauce. If using boiling water, they can soften in just 15 minutes.
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves to help them blend more smoothly.
- Add the soaked cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and garlic cloves into a high-speed blender.
- Blend the ingredients on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes completely smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your preferred flavor profile.
- If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth and blend until reaching desired consistency.
- For a warm sauce, transfer to a small saucepan and heat gently over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, vegetables, or as a creamy dip.
Tips
- Soaking is Key: Make sure to soak your raw cashews for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency. If you're short on time, boiling water can soften them in just 15 minutes!
- Blend Thoroughly: Use a high-speed blender for the best results. Blend the ingredients on high for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is completely smooth. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Adjust the Flavor: Taste your sauce before serving! Add salt and pepper to suit your palate. You can also experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or Italian herbs for a unique twist.
- Control the Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more vegetable broth to reach your desired creaminess.
- Serve Warm: For a warm sauce, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking. This will enhance the flavors and make it even more enjoyable!
- Versatile Usage: This sauce isn’t just for pasta! Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, use it as a dip for fresh veggies, or even spread it on sandwiches for an added creamy touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
