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Creamy Dairy-Free Pasta Recipe with Coconut Milk Sauce

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A quick and easy dairy-free pasta with a creamy coconut milk sauce that is rich, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is simple, versatile, and delicious, suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended; gluten-free pasta optional)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Pour 1 can (13.5 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk into the skillet. Stir gently and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Add lemon zest from 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast if using, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. If sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  5. Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat every piece evenly. Cook together for 1-2 minutes to marry the flavors. Add chopped fresh basil or parsley at the end for freshness.
  6. Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy warm for the best creamy texture.

Notes

Use full-fat coconut milk for best creaminess and avoid boiling sauce vigorously to prevent curdling. Save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add lemon juice towards the end of simmering to prevent separation. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor and should be added off heat to avoid clumping. Optional vegetables and proteins can be added for variety.

Nutrition

Keywords: dairy-free pasta, coconut milk sauce, creamy pasta, vegan pasta, gluten-free pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, dairy-free comfort food

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/creamy-dairy-free-pasta-recipe-with-coconut-milk-sauce-easy-and-perfect/