Vegan Roasted Cauliflower Alfredo Recipe

This creamy and delicious vegan roasted cauliflower alfredo is a healthy alternative to traditional alfredo sauce, made without dairy. Below is a step-by-step guide to preparing this comforting dish.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• ½ white onion, chopped
• 4 whole garlic cloves (unpeeled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• ½ cup soaked cashews (optional for creaminess)
• ¼ cup nutritional yeast
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon mellow white miso paste (optional for umami flavor)
• 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (or vegetable broth)
• Reserved pasta water (about ½ cup)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta of choice (e.g., fettuccine, penne)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Vegetables:

• On a large baking sheet, toss the cauliflower florets, chopped onion, and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread them out in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. Toss halfway through for even roasting.

Prepare the Pasta:

• While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

• In a blender, combine half of the roasted cauliflower, all garlic cloves (squeezed from their skins), nutritional yeast, lemon juice, miso paste (if using), soaked cashews (if using), non-dairy milk, and some reserved pasta water.
• Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water or non-dairy milk until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the alfredo sauce and remaining roasted cauliflower. Stir well to combine over medium heat until warmed through.

Serve:

• Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Optionally, sprinkle with additional nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for extra flavor.

Tips

• For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as garlic powder or smoked paprika when roasting the cauliflower.
• The cashews can be omitted if you prefer a lighter sauce; however, they add creaminess.
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables like peas or broccoli mixed in before serving.

Enjoy your creamy vegan roasted cauliflower alfredo as a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying!