Vegan Pasta Carbonara Recipe That Tastes Like The Original

Who says you need eggs and bacon to enjoy a rich and creamy pasta carbonara? This vegan pasta carbonara recipe brings all the classic flavors of the traditional Italian dish, but with a plant-based twist that’s just as satisfying.

Creamy, smoky, and packed with umami, this recipe uses clever substitutes like silken tofu, nutritional yeast, and smoked paprika to recreate that luscious sauce we all love. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to try something new and wholesome, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food without compromising your values or health.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a simple yet elegant meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.

Ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, dreamy vegan carbonara? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan pasta carbonara is a game-changer for anyone who craves that creamy, smoky pasta goodness but wants to avoid animal products. It’s:

• Rich and creamy without dairy or eggs, thanks to silken tofu and cashew cream.
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-packed with smoked paprika, garlic, and nutritional yeast for that iconic carbonara taste.
• Customizable — add mushrooms, peas, or your favorite veggies for extra texture and nutrients.
• Nutritious and balanced, providing protein from tofu and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts.

It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that will convert even the most devoted traditionalists. And if you love pasta, check out our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for another luscious plant-based pasta option.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta (gluten-free optional)
• 1 cup silken tofu
• 1/4 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color, optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
• 1/2 cup diced mushrooms or vegan bacon bits (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Blender or food processor
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the silken tofu, soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, olive oil, smoked paprika, turmeric (if using), lemon juice, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. If using mushrooms or vegan bacon bits, add them now and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Reduce heat to low and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and mushrooms. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a luscious, creamy experience.

Tips & Variations

For the creamiest sauce, make sure to soak your cashews thoroughly. If you’re short on time, use canned or roasted cashews.

• Add veggies: Stir in some steamed peas, spinach, or sautéed zucchini for a nutrient boost.
• Smoky flavor: If you prefer a smokier taste, add a splash of liquid smoke or increase smoked paprika slightly.
• Nut-free option: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether and increase tofu and nutritional yeast.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free.
• Extra protein: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans stirred in with the pasta.

For more rich and creamy pasta sauce ideas, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Nutrition Facts

This dish offers a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it a wholesome comfort meal with plenty of plant protein from tofu and cashews. It’s also a great source of fiber and heart-healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan pasta carbonara pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
• Crusty vegan bread or garlic bread for sopping up any extra sauce.
• A glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

For a full meal experience, you might also enjoy our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to bake your own fresh bread at home.

Conclusion

This vegan pasta carbonara is a testament to how plant-based cooking can be both indulgent and nutritious. By combining simple, natural ingredients, you get a creamy, smoky, and satisfying pasta dish that rivals its traditional counterpart.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Italian comfort food without the animal products, and it’s wonderfully versatile for those who like to add their own twist with extra veggies or spices.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to whip up and will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegan recipes like our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious to keep your menu exciting and wholesome.

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