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Vegan Creamy Tomato Shells Recipe

4.8 from 104 reviews

A simple and delicious Vegan Creamy Tomato Shells recipe featuring tender pasta shells enveloped in a rich, velvety plant-based tomato cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting and dairy-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces pasta shells

Sauce

  • 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup plant-based cream (such as cashew cream or coconut cream)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the tomato sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
  3. Create the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the plant-based cream. Add salt, black pepper, and dried basil if using. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.
  5. Serve: Spoon the creamy tomato shells onto plates and enjoy immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free pasta shells if gluten-free is preferred.
  • For extra flavor, add sautéed onions or fresh basil leaves to the sauce.
  • Adjust the consistency of the sauce with more plant-based cream or a splash of plant-based milk as needed.
  • This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: vegan creamy tomato shells, plant-based pasta recipe, dairy-free pasta sauce, easy vegan dinner, creamy tomato pasta