About the Recipe
Indulge in the balance of zest and creaminess with this vegan lemon garlic pasta! This dish combines the rich, velvety texture of a dairy-free sauce with the fresh, tangy brightness of lemon. Tender pasta, crisp broccoli, and crunchy cashews come together in a creamy, garlicky cashew dressing with a bright hint of lemon. It’s a quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for anytime.
Note: The ingredient quantities listed are approximate. I’ve been cooking by ‘eyeballing’ for years, and this recipe has naturally evolved without precise measurements. I have done my best to estimate the correct amounts and ratios of ingredients for smaller portions, but feel free to adjust as needed. Everyone’s taste preferences vary, so you may want more or less of some ingredients. Feel free to play and make it your own! Enjoy.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cup chopped cashews
2 cups cashew milk
2 cups broccoli florets
Pasta of your choice
1/4 cup Juice
1 tbsp lemon pepper
salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1 - Boil the Water
Fill a pot with enough water to cook the pasta and broccoli, then add a generous pinch of salt.
Step 2 - Make the Sauce
In a medium pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chopped cashews and stirring often, being careful not to let them burn. Then add the cashew milk, and lemon pepper. Cook on low heat until sauce begins to thicken. (If sauce doesn't thicken after about 5 - 10 minutes on a slow rolling boil, you can add 2 tbsp corn starch mixed with 2 tbsp cool water to the sauce). Add lemon juice, stir and remove from heat.
Step 3 - Cook the pasta and broccoli
Add the pasta to the boiling pot. Cook until pasta is al dente (slightly firm). Then add the broccoli and cook together until pasta is tender, and broccoli is bright green and a little soft but still crunchy.
Step 4 - Drain and Combine.
Drain the pasta in a large colander. Do not rinse. Transfer pasta back to pot. Add sauce and mix well. (Option to serve the sauce on top of pasta instead of mixed).