Delight your palate with the exquisite symphony of flavors and textures found in Vegan Cheesy Penne with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Broccoli. This plant-based culinary creation transforms a simple pasta dish into a masterpiece of wholesome goodness and indulgent satisfaction. The journey begins with whole wheat or gluten-free penne, cooked to perfection, providing a sturdy foundation for the medley of vibrant vegetables.
In a skillet, garlic-infused olive oil sets the stage for the sautéed glory of cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and blanched broccoli florets. As the vegetables tenderize, they release a burst of colors and flavors, elevating the dish to a visual and culinary feast. The plant-based magic unfolds with the creation of a rich and velvety cheesy sauce, blending almond milk, vegan cheese, nutritional yeast, Dijon mustard, and a touch of cornstarch for a creamy consistency.
The al dente penne eagerly welcomes this cheesy embrace, ensuring each pasta strand is coated with the savory goodness. The ensemble is then enriched with the sautéed vegetables, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures – the chewiness of the penne, the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes, the earthy notes of spinach, and the mild crunch of broccoli.
Served with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a touch of herbaceous brightness, this Vegan Cheesy Penne becomes a culinary sensation that transcends dietary preferences. It proves that plant-based dining can be a delectable and indulgent experience. As each forkful captures the essence of cheesy comfort and the wholesomeness of vibrant vegetables, this dish stands as a testament to the creative possibilities within the realm of plant-based cuisine. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo, this Vegan Cheesy Penne is a celebration of delicious, compassionate eating.
Vegan Cheesy Penne with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Broccoli
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (about 225g) whole grain penne pasta (or gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup vegan cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté cherry tomatoes in a bit of oil until they start to soften.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, sautéed cherry tomatoes, and wilted spinach.
- Add Cheese Sauce:
- Pour the vegan cheese sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until well coated.
- If desired, add nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor.
- Season and Garnish:
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheesy Penne with Cherry Tomatoes, Spinach, and Broccoli warm. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg