Print

Creamy Vegan Marry Me Pasta with Crispy Tofu Chicken

Creamy Vegan Marry Me Pasta with Crispy Tofu Chicken
Print Recipe

Creamy Vegan Marry Me Pasta with Crispy Tofu Chicken is a comforting, indulgent, and plant-based pasta dish that features silky pasta coated in a vibrant, flavorful tomato-based sauce and topped with perfectly crispy tofu simulating chicken. This recipe is protein-packed, dairy-free, and easy to prepare, perfect for cozy nights in or impressing loved ones with wholesome vegan goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Tofu “Chicken”

  • 14 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 2–3 tbsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil for frying

Pasta

  • 8 oz gluten-free or regular pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine recommended)

Creamy Marry Me Sauce

  • 1 cup canned tomatoes (crushed or whole, blended)
  • 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 2 hours (or use 3/4 cup plant-based cream such as oat cream or coconut milk for nut-free)
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (blend of basil, oregano, thyme)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

Garnishes and Fresh Herbs

  • Fresh basil, chopped (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Press the Tofu: Start by pressing your extra-firm tofu to remove excess water—this is key for maximum crispness when frying. After pressing, cut the tofu into bite-sized chicken-like pieces.
  2. Marinate and Coat the Tofu: Gently toss tofu pieces with a light marinade of soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast, then coat each piece evenly in a thin layer of cornstarch or flour to create a crispy exterior.
  3. Cook the Pasta: While frying tofu in a hot pan with olive oil, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining to use for adjusting the sauce consistency.
  4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a separate pan, sauté finely chopped garlic and onions in olive oil until translucent. Add canned tomatoes, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth, then simmer to combine flavors. Blend soaked cashews with a portion of the sauce or stir in plant-based cream to achieve a silky, creamy texture. Stir in nutritional yeast for a subtle cheesiness.
  5. Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Tofu: Drain the cooked pasta and mix it into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to adjust consistency. Fold in the crispy tofu pieces and fresh herbs to brighten the flavors.
  6. Plate and Serve: Dish up generous servings of the creamy pasta and tofu. Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, and optional toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds. Add cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil for an elevated finishing touch.

Notes

  • Press your tofu well to remove as much moisture as possible for optimal crispiness when pan-frying.
  • Reserve pasta water to naturally thin out the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
  • Soak raw cashews overnight or for several hours for the creamiest sauce texture.
  • Simmer the sauce gently to develop full-bodied flavor rather than just heating it quickly.
  • Cook tofu in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan so each piece crisps up perfectly without steaming.
  • Substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan for a different texture and flavor profile.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the sauce if you want a spicy kick.
  • For a nut-free creaminess, replace cashew cream with coconut milk or oat cream.
  • Enhance nutrition and color by adding vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers.
  • Use chickpea or brown rice pasta to keep the dish gluten-free and wholesome.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze by slightly undercooking pasta and storing in freezer-safe containers; thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water or plant-based milk to restore creaminess; avoid aggressive microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan pasta, creamy pasta, crispy tofu chicken, plant-based dinner, gluten free pasta, marry me pasta

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/creamy-vegan-marry-me-pasta-with-crispy-tofu-chicken/