Alfredo with Watercress and Chives

Main Dish / Vegetarian / Plant-based / Vegan

(15 votes, average: 3.73 out of 5)

Serves: 4 // prep time: 12 hours // cook time: 20 minutes

Chickpea flour not only gives this vegan alfredo its cheesy texture, but it also adds a needed boost of protein and fiber. High-fiber, nutrient-dense foods like chickpea flour can lower risk of heart disease.

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Ingredients

16 ounces (454 g) gluten-free and vegan pasta (or pasta of choice)
¼ cup (40 g) plus 1 tablespoon cashews, soaked overnight and drained
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon plus 1 ½ teaspoons nutritional yeast
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground pepper
1 cup (240 ml) water
¼ cup (30 g) chickpea flour
2 tablespoons chopped chives, plus chive flowers for garnish
1 cup (34 g) packed watercress
Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste

Directions

Begin cooking the pasta, according to instructions on the bag. While the pasta is cooking, make the sauce.
Place the soaked cashews in an upright high-speed blender; add the oil, yeast, vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste; set aside.
In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and flour, turn the heat to medium and continue to whisk for 6 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens to the consistency of a roux. Gently and carefully pour the mixture into the blender. Blend on high for 1 minute, until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust any seasonings, if needed. Add 1 tablespoon of chives and blend on medium for about 30 seconds.
In the last 30 seconds of cooking the pasta to al dente, add the watercress and cook until wilted. Drain the pasta and watercress and quickly rinse with cold water to stop them from cooking.
Transfer the pasta and watercress to a serving bowl; pour the sauce over the pasta and mix. Taste and adjust salt, if needed. Serve hot with remaining 1 tablespoon of chives, chive flowers, and nutmeg.