Pasta with Green Pea and Cashew Sauce

Introduction

Pasta with a green pea and cashew sauce is a fresh and flavorful dish that's both creamy and nutritious. The blend of green peas and cashews creates a smooth, rich sauce with a hint of sweetness and nuttiness, making it a delicious alternative to traditional cream-based sauces. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and provides a hearty yet healthy meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you're looking for a plant-based option or just something different.

The green pea and cashew sauce is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it not only satisfying but also nourishing. Cashews add a velvety creaminess, while the green peas bring a bright, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the pasta. This recipe is also versatile, so feel free to add in other vegetables or herbs to enhance the flavors even further.

Ingredients

For the pasta:

• 400 grams of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
• Salt for pasta water

For the green pea and cashew sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups frozen or fresh green peas
• 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, so it retains a slight bite. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Pea and Cashew Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the green pea and cashew sauce. If using frozen peas, cook them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside.

Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender or food processor. Add the cooked peas, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and vegetable broth to the blender. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add more broth or some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Once blended, season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the flavor by adding more lemon juice for brightness or olive oil for richness.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the prepared green pea and cashew sauce over medium heat. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help thin it out and ensure the pasta is well-coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once the pasta is fully coated in the sauce, remove it from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for added freshness and color. You can also sprinkle some toasted cashews or grated vegan cheese on top for extra texture and flavor.

Variations and Tips

• Additional Vegetables: For extra texture and flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the dish. These vegetables pair well with the creamy sauce and make the dish even more filling.

• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to enhance the flavors. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick of heat if you prefer a bit of spice.

• Make it Creamier: If you want an even richer sauce, you can substitute half of the vegetable broth with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a creamier consistency.

• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds, pine nuts, or extra cashews can be added as a garnish for additional crunch.

• Protein Addition: To make the dish heartier, you can add grilled tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh for a boost of plant-based protein.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken when chilled. Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

To elevate the flavor of the green pea and cashew sauce, you can also incorporate additional ingredients to customize the dish to your liking. For instance, adding a dash of nutritional yeast can enhance the creaminess while giving it a subtle cheesy flavor, perfect for those seeking a dairy-free alternative to Parmesan. If you enjoy a bit of zest, a pinch of lemon zest added to the sauce or as a garnish can brighten the dish even more, balancing the richness of the cashews.

For a more savory depth, try sautéing onions or shallots with a bit of olive oil before blending them into the sauce. This adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall complexity of the sauce. Additionally, you can experiment with different nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts for a slightly different flavor profile while keeping the sauce creamy and smooth.

Finally, for a fun presentation, consider garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens, adding color and elegance to the plate, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.

Conclusion

This pasta with green pea and cashew sauce is a delicious, creamy, and wholesome meal that's easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients. The combination of green peas and cashews creates a rich sauce with a perfect balance of flavors—slightly sweet, nutty, and tangy. Whether you're looking for a plant-based option or just want to try something new, this recipe is a great way to enjoy pasta with a healthy twist. Serve it as a comforting meal or a quick weeknight dinner, and enjoy the satisfying taste of this vibrant, creamy pasta dish.