If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly combines comfort, nutrition, and sophistication, look no further than Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Spaghetti. This vegan recipe is a culinary masterpiece, with a luscious cashew-based sauce coating tender spaghetti, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies on every level, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the steps, offer tips for success, and explore variations to make this dish your own.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Spaghetti
- 100% Vegan: This dish swaps traditional dairy-based cream with a cashew and coconut milk blend, making it both plant-based and indulgent.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein from cashews, fiber from spinach and mushrooms, and the energy-boosting carbs of spaghetti, this meal is as nourishing as it is delicious.
- Restaurant-Worthy: The creamy texture and bold flavors rival anything you’d find on a high-end menu.
- Customizable: You can adapt the ingredients to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Easy to Make: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Core Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews: Soaked to create a creamy base for the sauce.
- 6-8 garlic cloves: Roasted for a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti: The foundation of the dish; opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Sauce
- 4 cups reserved pasta water: Essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk: Adds richness and a subtle sweetness.
- ⅓ cup tapioca starch: A thickening agent for the sauce (substitute with cornstarch or flour if needed).
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the flavors.
Vegetables
- 2 cups mushrooms: Thickly sliced; cremini or shiitake work particularly well.
- 4 cups fresh spinach: Provides a burst of color and nutrients.
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
- Salt and pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
For Garnish
- Fresh basil: Optional, but adds a fragrant touch and visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cashews and Garlic
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Soak the cashews:
- Cover cashews with water and soak for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). If time is short, soak in hot water for 30 minutes.
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Roast the garlic:
- Heat a small pan over medium-high heat and roast the garlic cloves with their shells on until browned and softened. Remove the shells and set the garlic aside. Roasting garlic mellows its sharpness and enhances its natural sweetness.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
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Boil the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add plenty of salt to season the pasta and a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Add spaghetti and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.
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Reserve pasta water:
- Before draining the pasta, set aside 4 cups of the starchy pasta water. This will be crucial for the sauce.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
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Heat olive oil:
- In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
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Cook the mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
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Add the spinach:
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set the vegetables aside.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
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Blend the sauce ingredients:
- In a blender, combine soaked cashews, reserved pasta water, roasted garlic, lemon juice, coconut milk, and tapioca starch. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
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Cook the sauce:
- Pour the cashew mixture into a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Whisk constantly as the sauce begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve
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Toss everything together:
- Add the sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cooked spaghetti to the sauce.
- Use tongs to mix everything until the pasta is evenly coated.
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Season to taste:
- Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavors.
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Garnish:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.
Tips for the Best Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Spaghetti
- Reserve Enough Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta and allows you to adjust the consistency.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooking the spaghetti ensures it will hold up when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Roast Garlic with Care: Roasting the garlic in its shell prevents it from burning and maintains its sweetness.
- Blend Thoroughly: For a silky smooth sauce, blend the cashew mixture until completely lump-free.
Substitutions and Variations
1. Make It Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free spaghetti or another pasta alternative like zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
2. Swap Spinach for Kale
If you prefer heartier greens, kale works well as a substitute for spinach.
3. Add Protein
Incorporate plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas to make the dish more filling.
4. Experiment with Mushrooms
Try a mix of mushroom varieties, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello, to enhance the dish’s complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought cashew cream?
Yes, pre-made cashew cream can be used to save time. Simply thin it out with pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and vegetables in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
3. How long does this dish last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of plant milk to maintain the creamy texture.
Conclusion
Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Spaghetti is the ultimate combination of comfort, flavor, and nutrition. Its rich, velvety sauce is indulgent without being overly heavy, while the spinach and mushrooms provide a vibrant contrast in taste and texture.
Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a satisfying plant-based meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it is to create a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting!