Looking for a deliciously spicy, creamy, and quick plant-based meal? Vegan Cajun Pasta is the answer! This flavor-packed dish combines the heat of Cajun spices with the smooth richness of a dairy-free sauce, making it the perfect comfort food for both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Whether you’re craving a zesty dinner on a weeknight or need a crowd-pleasing dish for a special occasion, this vegan Cajun pasta recipe has you covered. With its combination of bold flavors, satisfying texture, and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, so you don’t have to spend hours cooking to enjoy a gourmet meal.
The creamy sauce is made using coconut milk, which brings a rich, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the fiery Cajun seasoning. The recipe is not only vegan but also adaptable, meaning you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of extra spice or prefer a milder flavor, this dish can be adjusted to meet your taste.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
This Vegan Cajun Pasta is the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and convenience. Here’s why you’ll love making it:
- Packed with Flavor – The Cajun seasoning brings a bold, spicy kick to the dish while the coconut milk adds a creamy richness that balances out the heat. This combination is a true flavor explosion in every bite.
- Simple & Quick – You can make this dish in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Adaptable to Your Taste – You can adjust the level of heat by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding a touch of chili flakes for extra spice. Plus, if you prefer a different pasta type or a different dairy-free milk, it’s easy to make the recipe your own.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free – This recipe is not only vegan but also completely dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free. It’s perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions, and it’s still rich and indulgent despite being free from animal products.
- Filling & Satisfying – The creamy texture and bold flavors make this dish incredibly satisfying, perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
- Easy Cleanup – With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe doesn’t leave you with a pile of dirty dishes. It’s as easy to clean up as it is to cook.
This recipe is guaranteed to impress anyone at your table, from casual family dinners to impressing guests at a dinner party.
Ingredients
- 8 oz of pasta (any variety, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat or light)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment Used
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large pan or skillet for cooking sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board for preparing vegetables
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Colander for draining pasta
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes to release their full flavor.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1/4 of recipe):
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
This Vegan Cajun Pasta is a hearty and filling dish that provides a great balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. The coconut milk offers a dose of saturated fat, but it’s plant-based, so you’re still getting the good stuff. The dish also contains fiber from the pasta and any added veggies, making it a well-rounded meal.
If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, you can swap in a lighter coconut milk or adjust the portion sizes. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, and the lack of dairy makes it perfect for those avoiding animal products.
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Vegan Cajun Pasta: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Vegan Cajun Pasta with Tofu: Add crispy tofu for a protein-packed variation.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Creamy Vegan Cajun Pasta with Veggies: Toss in some sautéed vegetables, like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini, for added nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap out the pasta for your favorite variety, whether it’s gluten-free, whole wheat, or any shape you prefer. - Is this dish spicy?
This dish is mildly spicy due to the Cajun seasoning and optional chili flakes. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the chili flakes or skip them altogether. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. Simply cook and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a little extra coconut milk if needed. - What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you don’t like coconut milk, you can substitute with cashew cream or any plant-based cream alternative like soy or oat cream.
Pro Tips by Emma
- To make the sauce even creamier, add a couple of tablespoons of nutritional yeast.
- Don’t skip toasting the Cajun seasoning. It brings out the full depth of the spices and enhances the flavor.
- For an added burst of flavor, try finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegan Cajun Pasta pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale to add more nutrients to the plate.
Vegan Cajun Pasta : A Flavorful and Creamy Plant-Based Dish
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large pan or skillet for cooking sauce
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Knife and chopping board for preparing vegetables
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz of pasta any variety, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes optional for extra heat
- 1 cup coconut milk full-fat or light
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Let the spices toast for 1-2 minutes to release their full flavor.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
Notes
Don’t skip toasting the Cajun seasoning. It brings out the full depth of the spices and enhances the flavor.
For an added burst of flavor, try finishing the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.