Imagine a plate of creamy, garlicky pasta topped with crispy, spiced cauliflower that’s bursting with bold Cajun flavors. This dish is the perfect blend of indulgence and health, bringing comfort food to your table in a plant-based, easy-to-make way. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy vegan garlic pasta with Cajun roasted cauliflower is a celebration of plant-based flavors done right. The smoky, spicy cauliflower perfectly complements the rich, garlicky pasta sauce, creating a dish that’s vibrant, comforting, and sure to impress. Plus, it’s simple to customize, making it suitable for a variety of diets and tastes.
Ingredients
Cajun Roasted Cauliflower
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 1 small head, cut into florets | About 3 heaping cups. |
| Oil | 2 teaspoons | Neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil. |
Cajun Spice Blend
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet mild paprika | 1 teaspoon | Adds mild sweetness. |
| Smoked hot paprika | 1 teaspoon | For a smoky flavor. |
| Cayenne pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Adjust to your spice preference. |
| Freshly ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds depth of flavor. |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon | Substitute with smoked paprika for less heat. |
| Dried thyme | ½ teaspoon | Adds herbal notes. |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Enhances the Cajun flavor. |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Essential for Cajun seasoning. |
| Onion powder | ¼ teaspoon | Complements the garlic flavor. |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
Garlic Sauce Pasta
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 oz | Use gluten-free pasta if necessary. |
| Olive oil | 2 teaspoons | Divided for different steps. |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Sautéed for flavor. |
| Non-dairy milk | 2 cups | Almond, soy, or cashew milk for creaminess. |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon | Use rice flour for a gluten-free option. |
| Arrowroot starch/cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Thickens the sauce. |
| Roasted garlic | 10 cloves | Sauté 3 extra cloves if unavailable. |
| Smoked paprika | ½–1 teaspoon | Adjust for a smoky flavor. |
| Dried thyme | ¼ teaspoon | Complements the garlic. |
| Nutritional yeast | 2 tablespoons | Adds a cheesy flavor. |
| Salt | ½–¾ teaspoon | Adjust to taste. |
Garnishes
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh basil or parsley | For garnish | Adds a fresh, herby touch. |
| Black pepper, cayenne, lemon juice | Optional | To enhance flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cajun Cauliflower
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with oil and the prepared Cajun spice blend until evenly coated.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
2. Cook the Pasta
- While the cauliflower is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
3. Prepare the Garlic Sauce
- Sauté the garlic: In a large pan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Mix the sauce base: In a small bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, flour, and arrowroot starch until smooth.
- Cook the sauce: Slowly pour the milk mixture into the pan with the garlic. Add the roasted garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, nutritional yeast, and salt. Stir continuously and simmer over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more salt, herbs, or spices as needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the thickened sauce and toss gently until fully coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Divide the pasta into serving bowls.
- Top each portion with the roasted Cajun cauliflower.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, black pepper, cayenne, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Rich and Creamy Without Dairy: The garlic sauce achieves a velvety texture using plant-based ingredients.
- Bold Cajun Flavors: The spiced cauliflower adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick to complement the creamy pasta.
- Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~400 |
| Protein | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~55g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~7g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)
FAQs About Creamy Vegan Garlic Pasta with Cajun Roasted Cauliflower
1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and roast the cauliflower up to a day in advance. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and combine it with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
2. What’s the best non-dairy milk to use?
Cashew milk is ideal for creaminess, but almond or soy milk works well too. Ensure the milk is unsweetened for best results.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of non-dairy milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to freeze the sauce and roasted cauliflower separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
5. How can I adjust the spice level?
For a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes in the Cajun spice blend. For extra heat, add more cayenne or use hot smoked paprika.
6. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! This creamy garlic sauce works well with various pasta shapes, including rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti.
Final Thoughts
Creamy vegan garlic pasta with Cajun roasted cauliflower is the perfect balance of indulgence and health. The rich, garlicky sauce pairs beautifully with the smoky, spiced cauliflower, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ready to try it? Share your delicious creations with friends and inspire others to embrace plant-based cooking!