Name: Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta for a Quick Vegetarian Delight
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (use a microplane for the finest zest); 1 cup Cashews (soaked for smoother blend); 1 cup Water (adjust for desired thickness); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (lightly packed); to taste Salt (adjust to preference); to taste Pepper (fresh cracked preferred); 12 ounces Pasta (spaghetti suggested); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (optional, grated); to taste Fresh Basil (for garnish)

After a long day, nothing beats the satisfaction of whipping up a meal that looks and tastes like it took hours—especially when it only takes a mere 15 minutes! This Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta is my go-to for those busy evenings when I crave something delicious yet simple. The creamy cashew-based sauce, infused with fresh basil and a pop of zesty lemon, clings to each strand of pasta, creating a comforting dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s vegetarian and meatless, making it perfect for everyone at the table. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal to impress friends, this recipe will have you covered. Ready to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This delightful dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Creamy Indulgence: The cashew-based sauce creates a rich, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.

Fresh Flavors: With fragrant basil and zesty lemon, each bite bursts with freshness that elevates your meal.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it alongside a refreshing green salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete experience. Want to explore more pasta options? Check out my Pistachio Pesto Pasta for an exciting twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: This meatless dish is sure to impress everyone at your table, making it a great choice for gatherings.

Dive into the creamy goodness and enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing!

Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish.

For the Sauce

Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to balance the creaminess of the sauce; freshly squeezed is best.
Lemon Zest – Enhances the lemon flavor and freshness; use a microplane for the finest zest.
Cashews – Provides a creamy base for the sauce; soak them if using a weaker blender for a smoother blend.
Water – Helps thin the sauce to the desired consistency.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and enhances flavor; extra virgin olive oil is recommended.
Fresh Basil Leaves – The key flavor component giving the sauce its aromatic quality; use fresh, lightly packed.
Salt – Enhances overall flavors, so adjust to taste based on personal preference.
Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth; fresh cracked is preferable.

For the Pasta

Pasta – Forms the base of the dish; any type works, though spaghetti is suggested.
Cherry Tomatoes – Contributes sweetness and freshness, cutting through the richness of the sauce; halving allows for better distribution.
Parmesan Cheese – Provides a nutty, salty flavor; can be omitted for a vegan option; grated is ideal.
Fresh Basil (for garnish) – An optional garnish that enhances both presentation and flavor.

Get ready to enjoy your Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta—it’s quick, satisfying, and bursting with delicious flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta

Step 1: Blend the Sauce
In a powerful blender, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, soaked cashews, water, extra virgin olive oil, fresh basil leaves, salt, and cracked pepper. Blend on high for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency. You can store this delicious creamy cashew sauce in a sealed container if you’re not using it right away.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your choice of pasta—spaghetti works beautifully—and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the cooking water, and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 3: Toss the Ingredients Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the creamy basil cashew sauce, using a spatula to toss them together gently. If the dish seems too dry, add small splashes of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency. The sauce should beautifully cling to every strand of pasta, creating a luscious base for your meal.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Tomatoes
Next, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the creamy basil cashew pasta. Their bursts of sweetness harmonize perfectly with the rich sauce, adding a refreshing contrast. Gently mix until the tomatoes are evenly coated and warmed through, which should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the creamy basil cashew pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. If desired, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with extra basil leaves for a vibrant presentation. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, enjoying this comforting, quick weeknight meal that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy cashew sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator; this helps maintain its freshness and flavor. Additionally, cook your pasta ahead of time, just be sure to toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on low heat while adding a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency, then combine it with the pasta and halved cherry tomatoes for a quick and comforting meal that tastes like it was made fresh!

What to Serve with Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta?

Elevate your dining experience with these enticing pairings that complement the richness of your pasta masterpiece.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy and buttery texture enhances the creaminess of the pasta while providing a delightful contrast. Toasted to perfection, it’s perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: Crisp, fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cashew sauce. The acidity of the dressing balances the dish beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a burst of flavor and texture, making your meal both colorful and nutritious. The caramelized sweetness blends wonderfully with the creamy notes of the pasta.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of grilled corn is a perfect match for the savory pasta. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or lime zest elevates the dish to new heights.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert, lemon sorbet cuts through the richness of the dish, providing a palate-cleansing finish. Its brightness resonates with the lemon notes in the pasta.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complements the vibrant flavors of the creamy basil cashew pasta, enhancing your dining experience with a refreshing touch.

Pairing these delightful sides will transform your Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta into a well-rounded meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—each variation adds its own delightful twist!

Nut-Free: Substitute cashews with sunflower seeds for a creamy sauce that everyone can enjoy.
Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or cilantro for a unique flavor profile, creating new layers of freshness.
Creamy Infusion: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese for an extra burst of creaminess that elevates the sauce.
Cheesy Delight: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan cheesy flavor that’s packed with taste and completely plant-based.
Zesty Twist: Increase the lemon juice for a more pronounced acidity, perfect for those who love a zesty kick in their meals.

Looking for more pasta inspiration? Try my delightful Pistachio Pesto Pasta for a nutty variation or check out the comforting Garlic Sausage Pasta for a satisfying twist!

Expert Tips for Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta

High-Speed Blender: Ensure you’re using a high-speed blender for a silky consistency. If yours isn’t powerful, soak the cashews in water for at least 2 hours.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper while blending the sauce. Taste as you go for the best creamy basil cashew pasta flavor.
Pasta Cooking: Remember to salt your boiling water before adding the pasta. This is crucial for enhancing the pasta’s natural flavor.
Well-Drained Pasta: Make sure to drain your pasta well but save some cooking water. It can help loosen your sauce if it becomes too thick after combined.
Cherry Tomato Distribution: Halve your cherry tomatoes to release their juices and mix seamlessly into the dish. This ensures every bite is a burst of flavor!
Garnishing for Aesthetic: Fresh basil and Parmesan aren’t just for flavor—they also enhance presentation. Don’t skip this step for that restaurant-style finish!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing.

Freezer: Freeze the creamy basil cashew pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the sauce separately from the pasta to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

Storage Tip: Always store the creamy basil cashew sauce separately if possible—this helps retain the lush texture for a delightful meal when you’re ready to eat!

Creamy Basil Cashew Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh basil, look for vibrant green leaves that are not wilting or brown. For cherry tomatoes, choose ones that are firm and bright in color, avoiding those with dark spots or wrinkles. As for lemons, pick ones that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness.

What’s the best way to store leftover creamy basil cashew pasta?
To ensure freshness, I recommend placing the creamy basil cashew pasta in an airtight container and storing it in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to retain the creamy texture.

Can I freeze creamy basil cashew pasta?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! However, I suggest freezing the creamy sauce separately for best results. Pour the sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. For the pasta, cook it until al dente, cool it down, and store it in a separate container. When reheating, use a low flame and add a little water or vegetable broth to bring it back to life.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find the sauce has thickened too much, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water or extra water as you reheat it. Stir well until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about keeping it creamy and delicious, so don’t hesitate to add a little liquid as needed!

Are there any dietary considerations for creamy basil cashew pasta?
This creamy basil cashew pasta is inherently vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese. If you’re catering to someone with specific nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds or making a light olive oil and garlic sauce instead. Always ensure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients for potential allergens!