Discover the perfect harmony of health and comfort with this Alkaline Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe. Whether you’re committed to a plant-based lifestyle or simply looking to enjoy a wholesome, dairy-free comfort dish, this recipe offers a creamy, cheesy flavor without the heaviness of traditional cheese.
Using nutrient-rich alkaline ingredients like cashews, nutritional yeast, and fresh turmeric, this mac and cheese not only satisfies your cravings but also supports your body’s pH balance. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a cozy weekend treat, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how deliciously it melts in your mouth.
This recipe is packed with wholesome goodness, free from processed dairy and gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary sensitivities. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies and superfoods, turning a classic comfort food into a nutritious powerhouse.
Dive into this creamy, vibrant dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Alkaline Vegan Mac and Cheese is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy classic comfort food while maintaining an alkaline diet. Here’s why it stands out:
- Alkaline Ingredients: Made with alkalizing nuts and vegetables, it helps balance your body’s pH.
- Dairy-Free & Vegan: Perfect for those avoiding dairy or animal products without compromising on creaminess.
- Rich & Creamy Texture: Cashews and coconut milk create a luscious sauce that coats every pasta bite.
- Loaded with Nutrients: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor plus B vitamins.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies or spices.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in warm water for 2 hours)
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and anti-inflammatory benefits)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for richness)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets (optional, for extra nutrition)
- Fresh ground black pepper to taste
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Strainer or colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Optional: Steamer basket for vegetables
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the cashew sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a high-speed blender. Add the coconut milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, smoked paprika, and olive oil.
- Blend until smooth: Blend on high until the sauce is completely creamy and smooth, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more plant milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Steam the broccoli (optional): While the sauce blends, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green, about 5 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Return the cooked macaroni to the large pot or a mixing bowl. Pour the cashew cheese sauce over the pasta and stir well to coat evenly.
- Add steamed broccoli: Gently fold in the steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and texture.
- Warm through: Place the pot back on low heat and gently warm the mac and cheese, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, about 3-5 minutes.
- Season to taste: Add fresh ground black pepper and adjust salt if needed.
- Serve immediately: Dish out the creamy alkaline vegan mac and cheese and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
Tip: Soaking cashews is essential to achieve that silky smooth texture. If you’re short on time, soak them in very hot water for 30 minutes instead of 2 hours.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Veggie boost: Mix in steamed spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrients.
- Herbal freshness: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, basil, or chives for a fresh aroma.
- Nut-free option: Use cooked white beans or cauliflower as the base instead of cashews for a nut-free version.
- Make it cheesy: Nutritional yeast is key for that cheesy flavor, but adding a small amount of miso paste can deepen the umami.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Protein | 15 g |
Carbohydrates | 52 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sugar | 3 g |
Calcium | 80 mg |
Iron | 3.5 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This creamy and alkaline vegan mac and cheese pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp salads or steamed greens for a balanced meal. Try serving it alongside a tangy kale and apple salad or roasted garlic asparagus for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
For those chilly evenings, this dish can be a comforting main course. Add a side of your favorite crusty whole grain or gluten-free bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
If you want to turn it into a heartier meal, stir in some sautéed mushrooms or crispy tofu cubes.
Conclusion
Enjoying a classic comfort dish like mac and cheese doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating goals. This Alkaline Vegan Mac and Cheese Recipe brings together wholesome, alkaline ingredients to create a creamy, satisfying meal that supports your wellness journey.
It’s quick to make, customizable, and free from dairy and gluten, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavor and nourishing qualities. Be sure to bookmark it alongside other delicious recipes like the Breakfast Wellington Recipe for brunch inspiration or the hearty Bread And Gravy Recipe.
For an added protein boost, explore the unique Bluebill Duck Recipes that offer a different culinary delight.
📖 Recipe Card: Alkaline Vegan Mac and Cheese
Description: A creamy, dairy-free mac and cheese made with alkaline ingredients for better digestion. This recipe uses cashews and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without acidity.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups steamed cauliflower
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Drain soaked cashews and blend with almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, and olive oil until smooth.
- Steam cauliflower until soft, then add to the blender and blend again until creamy.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce in a pot and heat gently for 5 minutes.
- Stir well to coat pasta evenly and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 50 g
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