Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms – Creamy, Flavorful & Easy Recipe

There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of pasta, especially when it’s coated in a vibrant, herbaceous pesto and topped with perfectly roasted mushrooms. This Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms is a dish that celebrates simple, wholesome ingredients while delivering bold flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re preparing a cozy meal for yourself or sharing it with friends and family, this dish comes together effortlessly and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Pesto has always been one of my favorite pasta sauces. The bright, aromatic combination of fresh basil, garlic, and lemon never fails to uplift any dish. This version keeps things completely plant-based while maintaining the luscious, creamy texture and deep, rich flavors you’d expect from a classic pesto. The secret lies in the blend of cashews and nutritional yeast, which add a naturally smooth consistency and a slightly nutty, cheesy depth. The result is a silky sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta, creating a balanced, flavorful bite every time.

And let’s not forget about the roasted mushrooms—they truly take this dish to the next level! Roasting mushrooms brings out their deep umami essence while enhancing their texture, making them a hearty and delicious addition to this pesto pasta. Their slightly crispy edges contrast beautifully with the creamy pesto, adding a touch of warmth and richness to every forkful.

This recipe is all about celebrating fresh ingredients and simple cooking methods that bring out the best in every component. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a weekend dinner, this vegan pesto pasta is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms

Bursting with Flavor – The fresh basil, roasted mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta create a rich, satisfying combination.
Easy & Quick – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Customizable – You can add extra veggies like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for more variety.
Perfect for Meal Prep – The pesto can be made in advance and stored, making future meals even easier

What to Serve with Vegan Pesto Pasta

This dish is filling on its own, but here are some great sides to pair with it:

Garlic Bread – A crispy slice of garlic bread makes the perfect companion.
Simple Green Salad – A fresh salad with balsamic dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini would complement the flavors beautifully.

FAQs About Vegan Pesto Pasta

Can I store leftover pesto? Yes! Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this oil-free? Yes, you can substitute the olive oil with water or vegetable broth, though the texture will be slightly different.

What other nuts can I use for pesto? Traditional pesto uses pine nuts, but cashews, almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds all work well.

Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta brand.

Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms – A Nutritious & Flavor-Packed Plant-Based Meal

Recipe by Admin

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

For the Roasted Mushrooms:
2 cups cremini or oyster mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
For the Vegan Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
¼ cup walnuts or pine nuts
2 tbsp nutritional yeast
2 cloves garlic
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Juice of ½ a lemon
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
1 tbsp salt (for boiling pasta water)
1 tbsp olive oil (for tossing)

Directions

Roast the Mushrooms:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss the sliced mushrooms with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Spread the mushrooms on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
Make the Vegan Pesto:
1. In a food processor, combine basil, walnuts (or pine nuts), nutritional yeast, garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Pulse until ingredients are finely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
4. Add water 1 tbsp at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
Assemble the Dish:
1. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the vegan pesto until well coated.
2. Add the roasted mushrooms and mix gently.
3. Serve warm with extra basil or nutritional yeast on top.

Notes

Mushroom Variations: Try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute walnuts/pine nuts with sunflower seeds.
Extra Creaminess: Blend in ½ an avocado for a richer pesto.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms! 🍃🍄🍝

Nutrition Facts

4 servings per container

Amount Per ServingCalories450
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g 34%
- Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Sodium 450mg 19%
Total Carbohydrate 52g 18%
- Dietary Fiber 5g 20%
- Sugars 3g
Protein 10g 20%

Calcium 70%
Iron 3%

* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Mushrooms is a must-try if you love bold flavors, creamy sauces, and satisfying pasta dishes. The combination of homemade pesto and savory roasted mushrooms creates a meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for loved ones, or just craving a nourishing plate of pasta, this recipe will never disappoint.

Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments! And if you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family—because good food is meant to be enjoyed together. Happy cooking!