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Pasta dishes have long been a beloved staple in many households, thanks to their rich flavors and comforting textures. However, traditional creamy pasta recipes often come with the downside of being high in calories and saturated fats. Enter Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta—a delightful twist on a classic that merges the comforting essence of alfredo sauce with the nutritional powerhouse that is cauliflower. This innovative dish not only maintains the creamy goodness that pasta lovers crave but also incorporates a host of health benefits, making it a perfect choice for families and health-conscious individuals alike.

Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta

Discover the deliciously healthy Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta that transforms a classic comfort food into a nutritious dish everyone will love. This recipe uses cauliflower to create a rich, creamy sauce, ensuring a lower calorie count without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for those following vegan or vegetarian diets, this dish is packed with vitamins and fiber. Easy to make and customizable, it’s a delightful meal choice for families and health enthusiasts alike. Get ready to enjoy a creamy pasta experience without the guilt!

Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred milk variety)

1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor boost)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for added flavor)

8 oz fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the chopped cauliflower. Allow it to simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool slightly.

    Sauté the Garlic: Using the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent browning.

      Blend the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked cauliflower, sautéed garlic, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutritional yeast, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, if using. Blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth or almond milk until you achieve your preferred texture.

        Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside.

          Combine the Sauce and Pasta: Return the drained fettuccine to the pot over medium-low heat. Pour the creamy cauliflower Alfredo sauce over the pasta and toss to combine thoroughly. If the sauce is on the thicker side, gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach the desired creaminess.

            Finish with Cheese: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and integrates seamlessly, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and cracked black pepper, if necessary.

              Serve: Plate generous servings of your Creamy Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta, finishing each dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes on top if you enjoy a bit of spice. Enjoy this deliciously healthier pasta dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings