This alternative vegetarian Alfredo recipe uses cauliflower to create a creamy, delicious sauce that is lighter yet still rich in flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish while incorporating more vegetables into your meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese) for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Steam the Cauliflower:
   • In a large pot, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 8–10 minutes. You can also boil them in water until soft.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In a blender, combine the steamed cauliflower, olive oil, minced garlic, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Sauté Garlic:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and sauté additional minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). This step enhances the garlic flavor in the sauce.
5. Combine Sauce and Pasta:
   • Pour the creamy cauliflower sauce into the skillet with sautéed garlic. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly. If needed, adjust the sauce’s consistency with more reserved pasta water.
6. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese.

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
• Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

This cauliflower Alfredo pasta is a fantastic alternative to traditional Alfredo sauce, providing a creamy texture without heavy cream. It’s perfect for those looking for a lighter yet satisfying meal that still delivers on flavor. Enjoy this delicious dish as part of your vegetarian repertoire!