Vegan Ziti Recipe That’s Easy, Delicious, and Healthy

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s both delicious and entirely plant-based, this vegan ziti recipe is exactly what you need. Ziti pasta baked in a rich, tomato-based sauce with layers of creamy, dairy-free cheese and savory vegetables makes for a meal that satisfies all cravings without any animal products.

Whether you’re a longtime vegan, curious about plant-based meals, or simply seeking a wholesome dinner option, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and nutrition.

This vegan ziti is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready to bake in no time.

Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize with your favorite veggies or vegan cheese alternatives. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy: This vegan ziti uses a luscious cashew-based cheese sauce combined with tangy marinara, creating a comforting and indulgent flavor profile that rivals traditional baked ziti.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common pantry staples, even beginner cooks can whip up this flavorful casserole without stress.

Versatile and customizable: Add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, or swap in different vegan cheese brands to suit your taste preferences.

Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat leftovers for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week.

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

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta (or penne)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup vegan shredded mozzarella or parmesan-style cheese (optional, for topping)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• High-speed blender or food processor
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes until mushrooms are tender and golden.
3. Add spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.
4. Make the cashew cheese sauce: Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender along with nutritional yeast, water, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add more water a tablespoon at a time if the sauce is too thick.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
6. Layer the ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Spoon half of the cashew cheese sauce over the pasta and gently spread. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cashew sauce.
7. Add toppings and bake: If desired, sprinkle the top with vegan shredded cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
8. Rest and serve: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking cashews overnight results in a creamier cheese sauce, but if you’re short on time, soak them in hot water for 1 hour instead.”

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Extra veggies: Toss in roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinara for a little heat.
• Make it nut-free: Substitute the cashew cheese with a tofu-based or cauliflower-based vegan cheese sauce.
• Meal prep: Assemble the ziti but don’t bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days, then bake fresh when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This vegan ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a festive touch, serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans seasoned with lemon and herbs.

Looking to try more plant-based pasta dishes? Explore our collection of Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or warm up with a comforting Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

Conclusion

This vegan ziti recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional Italian comfort food without any dairy or animal products. It’s packed with flavor, rich in texture, and offers the perfect balance of creamy and tangy notes thanks to the cashew cheese sauce and savory marinara.

Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy and impress.

With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. Don’t forget to personalize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours.

Ready to try more wholesome, plant-based meals? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish to your meal or the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to bake alongside this ziti.

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