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Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells: A Comforting, Dairy-Free Pasta Dish

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Enjoy a comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s 100% plant-based! This Creamy Vegan Broccoli & Shells recipe features tender pasta shells in a velvety dairy-free sauce, combined with fresh broccoli and flavorful spices. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 shallots, sliced
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, diced
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • 3/4 lb dry pasta shells
  • 2 cups vegan broth (chicken-style or vegetable broth)
  • 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or oat milk)
  • 1 cup non-dairy cream (Ripple, coconut cream, or cashew cream)
  • 1/2 cup vegan parmesan
  • 2 tbsp vegan cream cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics:
    • Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
    • Add shallots and onion, sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in diced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add Spices and Broccoli:
    • Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Stir well to coat the aromatics with seasoning.
    • Add fresh thyme and broccoli florets, mixing everything together.
  3. Cook the Pasta and Broth:
    • Pour in the vegan broth and bring to a simmer.
    • Add pasta shells, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid.
    • Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
    • Reduce heat to low and stir in non-dairy milk and cream.
    • Add vegan parmesan and vegan cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
    • Let the sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Remove from heat and let pasta sit for a couple of minutes to absorb flavors.
    • Garnish with extra vegan parmesan and fresh thyme before serving.
    • Enjoy warm and creamy!

Notes

  • Cook pasta in broth instead of water for extra flavor.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by adding more broth or non-dairy milk as needed.
  • Add nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy taste.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or milk.
  • Customize with roasted vegetables, red pepper flakes, or plant-based protein

Find it online: https://friendlywell.com/creamy-vegan-broccoli-shells-a-comforting-dairy-free-pasta-dish/