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In recent years, vegan cooking has surged in popularity, driven by a growing awareness of health, environmental, and ethical concerns. As more people seek to embrace plant-based diets, innovative recipes are emerging to satisfy cravings for traditional comfort foods. Among these is Rigatoni with Vegan Walnut Mushroom Meat Sauce—a hearty and satisfying meal that proves you don’t need meat to create a fulfilling dish. This recipe combines the delightful textures of rigatoni pasta with a rich and flavorful sauce made from walnuts and mushrooms, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned vegans and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets.

Rigatoni with Vegan "Walnut Mushroom Meat" Sauce

Discover the deliciousness of Rigatoni with Vegan Walnut Mushroom Meat Sauce! This hearty, plant-based dish combines the rich flavors of walnuts and mushrooms, creating a satisfying alternative to traditional meat sauces. Perfect for vegans and anyone wanting to explore more plant-based meals, this recipe is not only nutritious but also easy to make. Elevate your dinner with this comforting pasta dish that’s packed with healthy fats and proteins! #Vegan #PlantBased #Rigatoni #ComfortFood #HealthyEating #PastaLovers #VeganRecipes #MeatlessMeals
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Ingredients
  

12 oz rigatoni pasta

1 cup walnuts, finely chopped

1 cup mushrooms, finely diced (cremini or button)

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Nutritional yeast for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

    Prepare the Walnut Mushroom Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.

      Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and diced mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become slightly browned.

        Incorporate Walnuts: Add the finely chopped walnuts to the skillet and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the walnuts are fragrant.

          Add Tomatoes and Season: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss well to coat the pasta in the walnut mushroom meat sauce.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, if desired. Enjoy!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4