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Homemade Lemon Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce with Fettuccini photo

Lemon Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce with Fettuccini

This Lemon Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce is a creamy delight! Tossed with fettuccini and vibrant spinach, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Keyword: Creamy, Easy, Pasta, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup raw cashews soaked in water for 2-4 hours
  • 2/3 cup water adjust for desired sauce thickness
  • 1-2 cloves garlic fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor
  • 1/2 lemon juice brightens the sauce and adds acidity
  • 1 tsp lemon zest enhances the lemon flavor
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper for a hint of heat
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt to enhance all the flavors
  • 1/2 tsp cracked pepper adds a bit of spice
  • 1 cup baby spinach for added nutrition and color
  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta the perfect vehicle for this creamy sauce

Instructions

Cooking Steps:

  • Begin by soaking your raw cashews in water for 2-4 hours. This softens them, making them easier to blend into a creamy sauce.
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, 2/3 cup of water, garlic cloves, lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as necessary. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water until you reach your desired consistency.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil. Add the baby spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the sautéed spinach. Pour the lemon garlic cashew cream sauce over the pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out as needed.
  • Divide the Lemon Garlic Cashew Cream Sauce with Fettuccini among plates. For an extra touch, garnish with additional lemon zest or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Notes

  • Soak cashews for at least 2 hours for a creamy texture.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
  • For a nut-free alternative, use sunflower seeds instead of cashews.