SOY-FREE OPTION*   OIL-FREE   GLUTEN-FREE OPTION**

This creamy, pink pasta sauce comes together quickly and feels like a decadent treat, but it’s really good for you.

Indulge in the velvety and satisfying flavors of Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce, a delightful twist on the classic Italian sauce. This recipe takes traditional vodka sauce and gives it a healthy makeover, utilizing wholesome ingredients without compromising on taste. The star of this sauce is the creamy white beans, which provide a rich and luscious texture while adding a dose of plant-based protein and fiber. Combined with diced fresh tomatoes, unsweetened nondairy milk, and a splash of vodka, this sauce becomes a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The addition of garlic, nutritional yeast, and red pepper flakes adds depth and a subtle kick, making each bite a true delight. Pour this creamy creation over your favorite cooked pasta, whether it’s whole wheat or gluten-free, and top it with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of freshness. Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce is a guilt-free indulgence that proves you can have both flavor and nutrition in one delicious dish.

YIELD: 6 servings

TOTAL PREP TIME: 10 minutes

TOTAL COOKING TIME: 10 to 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE WHITE BEAN VODKA SAUCE:

• 1 1/2 cups (358 g) cooked white beans or 1 can (15 ounces, or 425 g), rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups (270 g) diced fresh tomatoes or 1 can (14.5 ounces, or 410 g)
• 1 cup (235 ml) unsweetened nondairy milk (*use soy-free)
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) vodka
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons (12 g) nutritional yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste

FOR SERVING:

• 6 cups (840 g) cooked whole wheat pasta, (**use gluten-free)
• Handful of fresh basil, cut into ribbons

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add the white beans, tomatoes, nondairy milk, vodka, garlic, nutritional yeast, and red pepper flakes to a food processor and purée until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring, for 10 to 15 minutes, until heated through.
3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
4. Serve the white bean vodka sauce over cooked pasta, whether it’s whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative.
5. Garnish with a handful of fresh basil, cut into ribbons, for a burst of freshness and added visual appeal.
6. Enjoy this creamy and flavorful white bean vodka sauce over pasta, savoring each mouthwatering bite.

NOTE:

• Feel free to customize this recipe by adding additional herbs or spices to the sauce, such as oregano or basil, to enhance the flavors even further. You can also adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more nondairy milk if desired.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

1. Pasta Delight: Pour the Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce generously over your favorite cooked pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Toss the pasta gently to coat each strand with the creamy sauce. Serve it as a comforting and satisfying main course.
2. Veggie-Packed Bowl: Create a vibrant and nutritious bowl by pairing the sauce with a variety of roasted or sautéed vegetables. Consider adding colorful veggies like roasted bell peppers, sautéed spinach, or caramelized onions. Serve it over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome and filling meal.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce as a delicious filling for stuffed bell peppers. Prepare the bell peppers by removing the seeds and stuffing them with a mixture of cooked grains, such as quinoa or couscous, and the sauce. Bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
4. Pizza Sauce Alternative: Spread the Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce over a pre-baked pizza crust and top it with your favorite veggies, such as sliced tomatoes, olives, and mushrooms. Sprinkle with vegan cheese and herbs, then bake until the crust is crispy and the toppings are golden. Enjoy a unique and flavorful pizza experience!
5. Dipping Sauce: Serve the Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce as a delightful dip for crusty bread, breadsticks, or vegetable crudités. Its creamy and savory nature makes it a perfect accompaniment for appetizers or as a tasty addition to a party platter.

Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can get creative with how you use the Creamy Healthified Vodka Sauce. Feel free to experiment and incorporate it into your favorite dishes to add a creamy and flavorful twist.

PER 1/2-CUP (115 G) SERVING (DOES NOT INCLUDE PASTA):

• 274 calories; 0.9 g total fat; 0.2 g saturated fat; 13.0 g protein; 49.8 g carbohydrate; 9.5 g dietary fiber; 0 mg cholesterol.

FANCY BEAN SUBSTITUTES:

• Flageolet, European Solider, Vallarta, Alubia Blanca