Miso & Cashew Alfredo is a deeply savory, umami-rich twist on classic vegan Alfredo sauce. By combining creamy soaked cashews with white miso paste, this version delivers a bold, restaurant-quality depth of flavor. The result is a silky, slightly tangy, and perfectly balanced sauce that elevates any pasta dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4–6 hours or overnight
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 cup unsweetened plant milk
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces pasta of choice
- Reserved pasta water, as needed
Step 1: Soak the Cashews
Place cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse before blending for a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce
Add soaked cashews, garlic, plant milk, white miso paste, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil, and black pepper to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Warm the Sauce
Pour the blended sauce into a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir gently for 3–5 minutes until warmed through. Avoid boiling, as high heat can dull the miso’s flavor. Add pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the creamy miso cashew Alfredo. Let it sit for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or vegan Parmesan. This sauce pairs especially well with mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or roasted broccoli.
Tips for the Best Miso & Cashew Alfredo
- Use white miso for a mild, balanced umami flavor.
- Don’t overheat the sauce to preserve miso’s delicate taste.
- Blend thoroughly for a perfectly smooth texture.
- Add extra lemon juice for brightness if needed.
- Adjust thickness using pasta water gradually.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Miso & Cashew Alfredo brings a rich, savory depth that sets it apart from standard vegan Alfredo sauces. The combination of creamy cashews and umami-packed miso creates a luxurious, well-rounded flavor that feels both comforting and gourmet