Creamy Vegan Pasta with Air Fryer Tofu
Introduction:
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of our Creamy Vegan Pasta with Air Fryer Tofu. This wholesome and satisfying dish brings together tender pasta coated in a velvety cashew-based sauce, complemented by crispy cubes of air-fried tofu. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress vegans and non-vegans alike. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and nutritional details to help you recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Creamy Pasta:
- 12 ounces (340g) of pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 cup (150g) of raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil
- 1 cup (240ml) of vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
For the Air Fryer Tofu:
- 1 block (14 ounces or 400g) of extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) of soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) of maple syrup or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) of sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Tofu:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cubed tofu to the bowl and gently toss until evenly coated with the marinade.
- Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is crispy and golden brown.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the tofu is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- In a blender, combine the soaked cashews (drained), minced garlic, olive oil, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more vegetable broth if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Transfer the cooked pasta to a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta and toss until well coated.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Divide the creamy pasta among serving plates or bowls. Top each serving with a generous portion of the air-fried tofu cubes.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the creamy pasta with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1 cup of cooked pasta with tofu
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 57g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g
Smart WW Points: 10 points per serving
Indulge in the creamy goodness of our Vegan Pasta with Air Fryer Tofu, a guilt-free and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re following a vegan lifestyle, looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, or simply craving a delicious pasta dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the creamy texture of the cashew-based sauce paired with the crispy tofu cubes for a delightful culinary experience that will leave you wanting more.