Your next go-to weeknight dinner will undoubtedly be this quick and nutritious vegan white sauce pasta with vegetables! This kid-friendly meal is unbelievably plant-based and so delicious. It is also highly customisable, low in calories, and done in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the pasta
- 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of your favorite vegan pasta (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli florets, bell peppers, and peas)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the white sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any other unsweetened plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and sauté for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the almond milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the nutritional yeast (if using) for a cheesy flavor. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg, if desired.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables and pour the white sauce over the pasta and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Heat the mixture gently for a few minutes until it’s all heated through.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 55-60g
- Dietary Fiber: 6-8g
- Sugars: 3-4g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Sodium: 150-200mg