Name: Creamy Tuscan Inspired Pasta with Sundried Tomatoes, Spinach, and Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 300 g pre-cooked penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, sliced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 400 ml coconut milk or cashew cream; 1 cup vegan chicken-style stock; 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes

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This creamy Tuscan-inspired pasta is a rich and comforting dish packed with vibrant flavors from sundried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fragrant basil. Made with a luscious dairy-free cream base, it delivers a satisfying balance of creaminess and freshness while remaining simple to prepare. Whether you use coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream, this pasta is a perfect weeknight meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for its flexibility and bold flavor profile. You can easily adapt the cream base depending on your preference, making it suitable for different tastes. The sundried tomatoes bring a deep, slightly tangy richness, while the spinach adds freshness and color. The addition of basil enhances the aroma and gives it that classic Tuscan feel.

Another reason to love this dish is how quickly it comes together. Using pre-cooked pasta saves time, and the sauce only needs a few minutes to simmer. It’s also a great option for those looking for a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing creaminess. The nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

300 g pre-cooked penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, sliced
2 cups fresh spinach
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
400 ml coconut milk (full-fat, no additives) or homemade cashew cream
1 cup vegan chicken-style stock
3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (plus extra for topping)

Optional cashew cream alternative:

1/2 cup cashews, soaked
1 1/2 cups water

Optional topping:

cashew garlic parmesan

Directions

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the sliced sundried tomatoes and cook for another two minutes to release their flavor.

Pour in the vegan chicken-style stock and allow it to simmer gently for about two minutes. This helps create a flavorful base for the sauce. Next, add the coconut milk or prepared cashew cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth, creamy mixture.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, dried Italian herbs, and red chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer for about five minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.

Add the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts into the sauce. Then mix in the chopped basil, which will give the dish a fresh and aromatic finish.

Finally, add the pre-cooked penne pasta to the pan. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another one to two minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the flavors.

Remove from heat and serve immediately. Top with extra chili flakes and optional cashew garlic parmesan for added texture and flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3 to 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes.
Cooking time is around 15 minutes.
Total time is about 25 minutes.

Variations

You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use a thinner cashew cream by adding more water. For extra protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas or lentils.

If you enjoy more vegetables, mushrooms or zucchini make excellent additions. Simply sauté them along with the garlic at the beginning.

For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili flakes entirely.

You can also experiment with different pasta shapes such as fusilli or rigatoni, depending on what you have available.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, especially if made with cashew cream.

To reheat, place the pasta in a pan over low heat and add a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy texture may change once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works well, including spaghetti, fusilli, or rigatoni.

Is coconut milk necessary?

No, you can use cashew cream as a substitute for a similar creamy texture.

How do I make cashew cream?

Blend soaked cashews with water until smooth to create a creamy base.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

You can skip it or use a dairy-free parmesan alternative.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, chickpeas, lentils, or tofu are great additions.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat from chili flakes, but you can adjust the amount.

Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and add pasta when ready to serve.

What herbs can I substitute for basil?

Parsley or oregano can work as alternatives.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a little water or stock while reheating to adjust the consistency.

Conclusion

This creamy Tuscan-inspired pasta is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together simple ingredients in a comforting way. With its rich sauce, fresh greens, and bold seasonings, it’s perfect for both quick meals and special occasions. Whether you choose coconut milk or cashew cream, the result is a satisfying and delicious pasta that you can easily adapt to your preferences.