Irresistibly Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta is everything you want in a comforting dinner — rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. It’s completely plant-based, but you’d never guess it’s dairy-free thanks to the silky, creamy sauce made with blended cashews, aromatic garlic, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a seasoned vegan, this recipe belongs on your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s a quick meal that feels indulgent yet is filled with wholesome ingredients — perfect for anyone looking for healthy vegetarian recipes for dinner.

If you enjoy vibrant and easy plant-based dishes, you’ll also love Vegetarian Pasta Primavera and Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi for more hearty dinner options.

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pasta Recipe

This recipe ticks all the boxes for an ideal weekday or weekend meal. Here’s why:

• Creamy without dairy – Cashews and sun-dried tomatoes create a velvety base
• Quick and easy – From stovetop to table in under 30 minutes
• Meal-prep friendly – Make it in advance or enjoy leftovers for lunch
• Satisfying – Loaded with plant-based protein and healthy fats
• Beautifully balanced flavors – Savory, tangy, and slightly sweet

It’s one of those recipes that proves easy delicious vegan recipes can be both nourishing and deeply comforting.

What Makes This One of the Best Vegan Pasta Recipes?

Many vegan pasta recipes rely on coconut cream or store-bought vegan cheeses, but this one leans on whole-food ingredients. Blended cashews, roasted garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes create an umami-rich, creamy base — no processed dairy substitutes needed.

This is also a gluten-free friendly recipe when made with gluten-free pasta, making it one of the most versatile options for dinner.

Looking for something with a bit of a fall twist? You might want to try the delicious Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Pancakes as a savory-sweet side dish or lunch follow-up.

Ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta

You’ll need the following simple yet wholesome ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil or dry, rehydrated)
• 2 cloves garlic, roasted or fresh
• 1½ cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
• Nutritional yeast (optional for cheesy flavor)

Ingredient Notes:

• Cashews: Soak in hot water for at least 20 minutes or overnight for best results.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed adds richness, but you can also use dry ones after rehydrating.
• Pasta: Use your favorite — traditional, whole wheat, chickpea, or lentil pasta all work well.

Want to add some crunch to your meal? Serve this pasta with a slice of Cheesy Zucchini Bread or top with crispy chickpeas.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make This Easy Vegan Pasta Dinner

Step 1: Soak the Cashews
Soak raw cashews in hot water for 20–30 minutes, then drain. This step softens the cashews for a smooth sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce
In a blender, combine soaked cashews, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted garlic, vegetable broth, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth. Add a splash of pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.

Step 4: Warm the Sauce
Pour the blended sauce into a skillet over medium heat. Warm gently for 5–6 minutes, stirring constantly. Add olive oil for extra richness if desired.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Top with chopped fresh herbs, nutritional yeast, or chili flakes for extra flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Love easy meals? You might also enjoy One Pot Ground Chicken Casserole — another quick comfort food fix.

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Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

• Blender or high-speed food processor
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for warming sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Spatula or tongs

These essentials will help you achieve the perfect creamy consistency and flavor every time.

Tips to Make the Creamiest Vegan Pasta Without Dairy

• Use soaked cashews for ultimate creaminess.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice — it adds brightness and balance.
• Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
• Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that mimics Parmesan.

Looking for another high-protein plant-based meal? You’ll love our Creamy Marry Me Chickpeas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Vegan Cream Sauces

1. Not soaking the cashews properly – This can lead to a gritty texture.
2. Skipping seasoning – Cashew-based sauces need salt, garlic, and acidity to really shine.
3. Overcooking the sauce – Heat gently to preserve the creaminess.
4. Using the wrong blender – A high-speed blender gives the silkiest results.

Need something more seasonal? Pair with Pumpkin Whipped Cottage Cheese or Oven-Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks for a full vegan fall meal.

Serving Suggestions: Turn This Into a Complete Plant-Based Meal

This creamy pasta is filling on its own, but here are ideas to turn it into a full plate:

• Side of Cucumber Dill Salad for freshness
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms
• Garlic bread or Pumpkin Zucchini Bread for a cozy touch
• Topped with toasted pine nuts or hemp seeds for crunch

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To Store:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:
Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the pasta.

Looking for make-ahead options? Try Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches or Brown Sugar Overnight Oats for morning prep.

Simple Variations and Substitutes for This Recipe

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste.
• Add greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale before serving.
• Boost protein: Add white beans or green peas.
• Use roasted red peppers: Instead of sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist.
• Make it nut-free: Substitute sunflower seeds or silken tofu for cashews.

For more creative spins on classic flavors, explore Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs or Healthy Air Fryer Zucchini.

Why This Recipe Works for Easy Meal Ideas (Vegetarian and Vegan)

This pasta is a go-to because it’s:

• Quick to prep
• Made with pantry staples
• Customizable to any dietary need
• Perfect for meal prep or batch cooking

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, it fits seamlessly into your weekly plan. For more healthy vegetarian recipes, don’t miss our roundup of Easy Meal Ideas Vegetarian.

Quick and Fast Dinner Recipes: Ready in Under 30 Minutes

This creamy vegan pasta is ideal when you’re short on time but still want something wholesome and comforting. In under 30 minutes, you get a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours.

For other fast dinner recipes vegetarian-friendly, try:

• Sweet Chili Halloumi Wraps
• Tex-Mex Cowboy Stew
• Garlic Butter Shrimp and Mashed Potatoes

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FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Can I make this nut-free?
Yes. Use silken tofu, sunflower seeds, or white beans instead of cashews.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Can I prep the sauce in advance?
Absolutely. Store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Do I need a high-speed blender?
For the creamiest result, yes. A standard blender can work but may leave some texture.

What can I serve this with?
Fresh salad, roasted veggies, or hearty bread. See our serving suggestions above!

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Vegan Pasta is rich, flavorful, and satisfying — the kind of dish that converts skeptics into full-blown vegan meal lovers. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, making it a must-have in any plant-based kitchen.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends, pin it for later, and subscribe to the blog for more plant-based, wholesome dinners like this one. And don’t forget to explore other favorites like Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta or the viral Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes.

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