Description
This creamy tortellini pasta recipe features a flavorful, rustic tomato sauce made with fresh roma tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. It’s a quick and easy meal, perfect for meal prep and pantry-friendly cooking. The sauce is rich and creamy yet dairy-free, making it ideal for vegan diets.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
- 7 Roma tomatoes, cut in half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1¼ cup vegetable broth
Pasta
- 1 lb vegan tortellini or cooked penne pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the roma tomatoes in half. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the tomatoes cut-side down in a single layer. Cover with a lid and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and the skins begin to loosen.
- Cook the pasta (if using penne): If using a different pasta than tortellini, cook according to package instructions while making the sauce.
- Remove tomato skins: Remove the lid and use tongs to carefully lift off and discard the tomato skins or set aside to make tomato peel powder.
- Create the sauce: Use a potato masher or fork to gently break down the tomatoes in the skillet, creating a rustic tomato sauce. Add the coconut milk and vegetable broth to the skillet, then stir in dried oregano, dried basil, nutritional yeast, garlic, and salt. Stir well until the mixture is fragrant and combined.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the vegan tortellini (if uncooked) or cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly.
- Finish cooking: Cook covered for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through according to package directions and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Serve: Serve the creamy tortellini pasta warm, optionally topped with extra herbs or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Notes
- You can use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a milder flavor.
- If using penne pasta, be sure to cook it separately according to package instructions.
- Removing the tomato skins creates a smoother sauce but is optional if you prefer more texture.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free vegan tortellini or gluten-free pasta.
- This dish stores well in the fridge and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
