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Creamy Vegan Tomato Pasta

This dish features a rich, velvety tomato sauce simmered with fresh garlic and bright basil, tossed with your favorite pasta for a comforting, satisfying meal. The sauce’s smooth, glossy texture clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a hearty yet fresh dish perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends. Simple ingredients come together into a flavorful, creamy masterpiece with minimal fuss.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups ripe tomatoes chopped or crushed, or use canned crushed tomatoes
  • 12 oz pasta fusilli, penne, or spaghetti
  • 1 cup coconut milk or cashew cream
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and finishing
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil torn just before adding
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 dash lemon juice optional for brightness

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle or tongs

Method
 

  1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. You’ll notice the aroma filling the air as the garlic becomes golden and soft.
  2. Add the chopped or crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, turning into a rich, slightly jammy sauce with a vibrant aroma.
  3. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions—about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  4. Once the tomato sauce has thickened and smells sweet and savory, stir in the coconut milk or cashew cream to add a silky richness. Mix thoroughly until the sauce turns smooth and glossy.
  5. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. This balancing step enhances the brightness and depth of flavors.
  6. Transfer the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, using a ladle or tongs to toss and coat the noodles evenly. Cook together for another 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce clings to every strand.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in torn basil leaves for a burst of fresh aroma. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for finishing touches.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with more basil or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. The sauce should be glossy and cling beautifully to the pasta, with a vibrant, fragrant aroma inviting you to dig in.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan. Use ripe, fragrant tomatoes for best flavor. Feel free to swap coconut milk for almond or cashew cream for a different nutty richness.