Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta with 'Ricotta'
Prep
15m
Cook
25m
Total
40m
Serves
4
Cal
480
“Get ready for a hug in a bowl with this rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying pasta dish that tastes like pure comfort!”
Get ready for a hug in a bowl with this rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying pasta dish that tastes like pure comfort! Inspired by Italian flavors, this easy-to-make creamy tomato & spinach pasta with 'ricotta' comes together with just a handful of ingredients and yields 4 generous servings. At 480 calories per serving, it's a satisfying choice that doesn't compromise on nutrition. Ready in 40 minutes (15 min prep, 25 min cook), it's proof that plant-based comfort food can be both simple and extraordinary.
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Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2
While pasta cooks, prepare the 'ricotta'. In a small blender or food processor, combine the soaked and drained cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, one at a time, and blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.
- 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- 6
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- 7
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine.
- 8
Dollop spoonfuls of the cashew 'ricotta' over the pasta. Gently stir some of it in, leaving some in dollops for a beautiful presentation. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- 9
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your comforting, creamy pasta!
Pro Tips
This recipe packs 18g of protein per serving. For even more protein, add a scoop of plant-based protein powder or extra beans.
High in fiber at 9g per serving, this dish will keep you full and satisfied for hours.
Use high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs for the most authentic flavor. Dried herbs work in a pinch but fresh makes a noticeable difference.
Taste as you go and adjust seasoning before serving. Plant-based dishes often benefit from a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt at the end.
Serving Suggestions
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