Cauliflower alfredo pasta

Cauliflower Vegan Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms

Ingredients

For the Alfredo Sauce:

1. 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
2. 2 cups vegetable broth
3. 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 tablespoon olive oil
6. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
7. 1 teaspoon salt
8. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
9. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Pasta:

1. 12 ounces whole grain or gluten-free pasta (fettuccine or penne)
2. 2 cups broccoli florets
3. 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or your choice)
4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
5. Salt and pepper, to taste
6. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
2. In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the chopped cauliflower and garlic. Cook until the cauliflower is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Drain the cauliflower and garlic, and transfer them to a blender. Add nutritional yeast, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness with a splash of vegetable broth if necessary. Set aside.
4. Cook the Pasta:
5. Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water. During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
6. Sauté the Mushrooms:
7. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Combine:
9. In the skillet with mushrooms, add the drained pasta and broccoli. Pour in the Alfredo sauce and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
10. Serve:
11. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving, serves about 4)

1. Calories: 350
2. Protein: 12g
3. Carbohydrates: 60g
4. Fat: 8g
5. Fiber: 8g
6. Sugar: 5g
7. Sodium: 600mg

Taste Profile

This Cauliflower Vegan Alfredo Pasta has a creamy texture and a rich, savory flavor that mimics traditional Alfredo sauce. The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy, while the garlic and lemon juice bring brightness and depth. The sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy note, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the dish.