By Ujjainee Roy
April 22, 2024
A rich, creamy buttery pasta often comes with a side of guilt too, if it has too many fatty ingredients or empty sugars. Adding heavy cream to your pasta may be the easy way out but there are plenty of healthier options. Let's try some of them!
Coconut milk is a creamy and flavorful alternative to dairy cream, lending a subtle tropical taste to pasta dishes. Choose full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture, and simply substitute it for cream in your favorite pasta recipes. Coconut milk pairs well with a variety of flavors, from Thai-inspired curries to Italian classics like carbonara.
Cashew cream is a versatile and luxurious alternative to dairy cream, made by blending soaked cashews with water until smooth. The creamy texture and mild flavor of cashew cream make it perfect for pasta sauces, such as Alfredo or creamy tomato. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost.
Silken tofu is a protein-rich alternative to cream that adds a silky texture to pasta sauces. Blend silken tofu with vegetable broth, lemon juice, and your favorite seasonings to create a creamy sauce that's perfect for tossing with noodles. Silken tofu also pairs well with bold flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and roasted garlic.
Almond milk is a light and nutty alternative to dairy cream, making it ideal for those looking to cut calories without sacrificing creaminess. Use unsweetened almond milk as a one-to-one substitute for cream in pasta sauces, such as pesto or mushroom stroganoff.
Oat cream is a dairy-free alternative made from oats and water, offering a creamy texture and neutral flavor that's perfect for pasta dishes. Use oat cream as a base for creamy sauces like carbonara or vodka sauce, or drizzle it over stuffed pasta dishes like ravioli or tortellini. Oat cream is also lower in fat than dairy cream, making it a lighter option.
Soy milk is a popular dairy-free alternative that offers a creamy texture and mild flavor, making it perfect for pasta sauces. Choose unsweetened soy milk for savory dishes and use it as a substitute for cream in recipes like creamy mushroom or spinach pasta.
Vegetable purees, such as pumpkin, butternut squash, or cauliflower, can be used to create creamy pasta sauces without the need for dairy cream. Simply steam or roast your chosen vegetable until tender, then blend it with vegetable broth or water until smooth.