This vegan Creamy Buffalo Pasta with Cauliflower combines the spicy flavors of buffalo sauce with the luxurious creaminess of a cashew-based sauce, resulting in an amazing pasta dish! Roasted buffalo cauliflower florets add a delightful texture and a hint of spice, while the creamy sauce coats each pasta strand with rich flavor.
It’s ready in about 40 minutes, making it a great choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special indulgence. Whether you’re sharing with friends or having a solo pasta celebration, this dish promises a taste bud adventure! If you enjoy Buffalo Sauce, this dish is for you!
This dish combines the spicy tang of buffalo sauce with the rich creaminess of cashew-based sauce for a satisfying and flavorful vegan pasta dish. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can choose your favorite pasta shape or type, but cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly.
Is buffalo sauce vegan?
Many store-bought buffalo sauces are vegan, but it’s essential to check the label as ingredients can vary between brands. Look for a vegan-friendly option without dairy or animal products.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the buffalo sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
How can I make the sauce even creamier?
You can adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more soaked cashews or a splash of plant-based milk for extra creaminess.
What can I serve as a side dish with this pasta?
You can complement this dish with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or some fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Adjust the level of spiciness by using a milder buffalo sauce or reducing the amount of sauce you add to the recipe.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftover buffalo cauliflower pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze it, pasta dishes with creamy sauces can sometimes change in texture upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, consider reheating it gently on the stove with a bit of extra liquid to restore the creaminess.
Can I make this dish nut-free?
To make it nut-free, you can try substituting soaked sunflower seeds for the cashews in the creamy sauce, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Creamy Buffalo Cauliflower Pasta
Ingredients
For the buffalo cauliflower:
- 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce (make sure it's vegan)
- salt and pepper to taste
For the creamy sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked overnight or soaked in hot water for 1 hour)
- ¾ cup vegetable broth (or water)
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
For the pasta:
- 16 oz. your favorite vegan pasta
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, buffalo sauce, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and slightly crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. When it is done, drain and set aside.
- While the cauliflower is roasting and the pasta is cooking, make the sauce. In a blender, combine the drained cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, buffalo sauce, granulated garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and salt.Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the sauce. on medium heat. Then combine gently the cooked pasta, and roasted buffalo cauliflower with the creamy sauce. Stirring gently, until everything is heated through and combined.
- Serve your creamy buffalo cauliflower pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
