Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta of choice (reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2-3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 cups nondairy milk (we used oat milk)
- 4 ounces vegan ricotta
Garnish
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons vegan parmesan
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
- Prepare the sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add lemon and seasoning: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, kosher salt, and lemon pepper seasoning. Mix to combine and let the sauce simmer for a minute to meld the flavors.
- Incorporate nondairy milk and vegan ricotta: Pour in the oat milk and stir in the vegan ricotta. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired creamy consistency.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to ensure every strand is coated evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon pepper if needed.
- Finish and garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley and vegan parmesan. Serve immediately for the best flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water as it helps to thin and bind the sauce for a silky texture.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the best bright, authentic lemon flavor.
- The lemon pepper seasoning can be adjusted to taste or substituted with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Different nondairy milks can be used; oat milk offers creaminess without overpowering the lemon.
- For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked chickpeas or white beans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan