Are you craving the rich, creamy indulgence of shrimp fettuccine alfredo but want to keep it vegan? You’re in luck!
This alternative vegan recipe captures all the luscious flavors and textures of the classic Italian favorite — without any animal products. By using plant-based ingredients like king oyster mushrooms to mimic the shrimp and a homemade cashew alfredo sauce, this dish delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, umami, and freshness.
It’s an ideal option for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to reduce their seafood consumption while still enjoying a decadent pasta dinner.
Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself, this vegan shrimp fettuccine alfredo recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a wonderful weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Let’s dive into this delicious and sustainable twist on a beloved classic!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan shrimp fettuccine alfredo recipe is a game-changer for plant-based pasta lovers. Here’s why it stands out:
- Deliciously creamy: The cashew-based alfredo sauce is rich, smooth, and beautifully coats every strand of fettuccine.
- Seafood flavor without the seafood: King oyster mushrooms are sliced and cooked to replicate the texture and taste of shrimp, giving you that familiar bite and umami punch.
- Healthy yet indulgent: This dish uses wholesome ingredients packed with nutrients, without compromising on indulgence.
- Quick and easy: You can whip this up in about 25 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to tailor the dish to your taste.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (gluten-free if preferred)
- 2 large king oyster mushrooms, sliced into shrimp-like pieces
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 20 minutes
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other plant milk)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for smoky umami)
- 1 tsp sea salt, adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- High-speed blender
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander or strainer
Instructions
- Prepare the cashews: Soak the raw cashews in hot water for at least 20 minutes to soften. Drain before using.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Sauté the king oyster mushrooms: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sprinkle with smoked paprika and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and slightly crispy on edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the alfredo sauce: In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Heat the sauce: Pour the blended sauce into the same skillet you used for mushrooms. Warm gently over low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Combine pasta, sauce, and mushrooms: Add the cooked fettuccine and sautéed mushrooms to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy alfredo sauce.
- Serve immediately: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Enjoy your vegan shrimp fettuccine alfredo hot!
Tips & Variations
Use king oyster mushrooms for their firm texture and natural umami, which closely mimics shrimp. If you can’t find them, oyster mushrooms or even peeled artichoke hearts are good alternatives.
- Make it gluten-free: Swap traditional fettuccine for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
- Add veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Boost the flavor: Add a splash of white wine or vegan Worcestershire sauce to the sauce for depth.
- Nut-free option: Replace cashews with silken tofu blended with a bit of vegan cream for a nut-free creamy sauce.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce and mushrooms in advance; just reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Fat | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 55 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sugar | 4 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan shrimp fettuccine alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted asparagus. Garlic bread made with vegan butter is another perfect match to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup such as a vegan tomato basil or a chilled cucumber soup. To round off the meal, a refreshing dessert like a Blueberry Mule With Blueberry Vodka Recipe cocktail or a slice of vegan fruit cake keeps the culinary journey balanced.
Conclusion
This alternative vegan shrimp fettuccine alfredo recipe brings together the best of plant-based cooking with the comforting flavors of a traditional Italian classic. By using king oyster mushrooms and a rich cashew cream sauce, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
It’s perfect for those embracing veganism or anyone seeking a delicious seafood-free pasta option.
Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers plenty of room for creativity with veggies and seasonings. Serve it up for dinner and watch it disappear fast—this recipe is destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
For more inspiring recipes, try our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or dive into hearty flavors with the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. If you love seafood-inspired dishes, don’t miss our Argentinian Red Shrimp Pasta Recipes Easy for another taste sensation.
📖 Recipe Card: Alternative Vegan Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan twist on classic shrimp fettuccine alfredo using king oyster mushrooms as shrimp substitutes. This dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for a plant-based dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 large king oyster mushrooms, sliced into shrimp-like pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours
- 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sauté king oyster mushrooms with smoked paprika until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
- Pour cashew sauce into the skillet with mushrooms and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition: Calories: 520 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 60 g
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