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Creamy Vegan Coconut Spinach Pasta: Gluten-Free Comfort Food

Creamy Coconut & Spinach Pasta (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

Okay, let's get cooking! I'm absolutely buzzing to share this recipe with you. It's not just any recipe; it's my go-to for when I need something comforting, satisfying, and, most importantly, 100% gluten-free and vegan. Honestly, I stumbled upon this combination quite by accident, while attempting to recreate a childhood favorite (a slightly less healthy version, I admit!). The result was so magical, so utterly delicious, that it's become a staple in my home. I think you're going to love it just as much as I do.

This isn't about deprivation, it's about vibrant, flavourful food that makes you feel amazing, inside and out. Get ready for the star of the show: Creamy Coconut & Spinach Pasta.

Creamy coconut spinach pasta, gluten-free, with basil and red pepper flakes.

Creamy Coconut & Spinach Pasta: Comfort Food, Vegan Style

This isn't your typical gloopy vegan pasta dish. No, no. This is velvety smooth, subtly sweet from the coconut milk, and packed with the goodness of fresh spinach. It's quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal, but fancy enough to serve to friends, which, trust me, I've done countless times. The secret lies in the simplicity; each ingredient plays its part perfectly. I promise, even if you're a pasta purist, you'll be converted. So, let's dive in!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 pound gluten-free pasta (I love using brown rice pasta or lentil-based pasta, but any shape works!)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (this is essential for the creamy texture!)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth (low sodium is best, but use what you have)
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped (don't be shy with the spinach!)
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (this gives it that cheesy depth)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh is always better!)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a little kick
  • Optional: Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Get the Water Boiling: First things first, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Now, it's important that the water is really boiling, not just simmering, to ensure your pasta cooks correctly. Add your gluten-free pasta and cook according to package directions. Don't overcook it – we want it al dente! Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside. A little tip: don't rinse the pasta; the starch helps the sauce cling.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, let's get started on the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Stir it occasionally - nobody loves burnt onions. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until wonderfully fragrant. It's so crucial not to burn the garlic, it will turn bitter, so keep an eye on it.
  3. Create the Creamy Base: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and vegetable broth into the skillet. Stir everything gently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together like a harmonious choir. Now, the full-fat coconut milk is key here; it adds that irresistible richness without compromising on vegan goodness.
  4. Add the Green Goodness: Stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts and becomes a beautiful vibrant green - this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Don't be afraid to throw in more spinach if you're a fan, it will cook down so don't panic if it looks like a mound in there.
  5. The Final Touches: Now, it's time for the magic ingredient: nutritional yeast. Sprinkle the nutritional yeast into the sauce, and stir well. This gives it that cheesy, umami flavor that we all crave. Add the lemon juice, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Again, remember to taste as you go to add or change anything you fancy. If you're feeling spicy, throw in a pinch of those red pepper flakes for a little heat. Simmer for a couple of minutes so everything can come together.
  6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently until every strand of pasta is coated in that deliciousness. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil, if desired. Now, dig in and see what all the fuss is about.
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Tips & Tricks

  • Spice it Up: For a bit of extra heat, add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes while you're cooking the onions and garlic, or add a dash of hot sauce to your individual serving.
  • Protein Boost: Want to increase the protein content? Add some cooked chickpeas or white beans to the sauce along with the spinach. It's delicious, and it will elevate the recipe even more.
  • Different Greens: If you're not a spinach lover, you can use other leafy greens like kale or chard. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, until they're tender.
  • Vary the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers, while sauteing the onions and garlic. Add any color you like.
  • Nuts for Topping: Toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts make a delightful crunchy topping. You can add them after you've served the pasta.
  • Make it Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance, making this a perfect meal prep option. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and then simply reheat when you're ready to eat.

Product Recommendations

If you're aiming for that perfect al dente texture consistently, a pasta pot with a built in strainer is a game changer! The process of draining the pasta becomes so much more efficient.

Using a high quality nonstick skillet makes the sauce preparation even simpler, allowing you to avoid any sticking issues.

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