To make a creamy pasta sauce without using heavy cream, start by sautéing aromatics like onions and garlic in olive oil. Then, add vegetable or chicken broth and unsweetened non-dairy milk to the pan. Thicken the mixture with a flour slurry and season it with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Finally, toss the creamy sauce with your cooked pasta for a delicious dairy-free meal.
How to Make a Creamy Pasta Sauce without Using Heavy Cream
Creamy pasta sauces are a staple in many cuisines, but they often rely on heavy cream for their richness and silky texture. If you're looking to cut back on dairy or simply want a lighter alternative, there are several ways to achieve a creamy consistency without using heavy cream. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a delicious creamy pasta sauce without the traditional ingredient.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or cashew work well)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, finely chopped (optional)
Steps to Create Your Creamy Sauce:
1. Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add Broth and Milk
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the non-dairy milk of your choice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Thicken with Flour
In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour with a little water to create a smooth paste. This is called a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while continuously whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
4. Season and Finish
Stir in the Dijon mustard along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another minute or so until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. If using, stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.
5. Toss with Pasta
Once your sauce has reached a creamy and thick texture, remove it from the heat. Toss the sauce with your cooked pasta of choice until evenly coated.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Sauce:
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add more broth or non-dairy milk to thin it out. If it's too thin, continue to cook it on low heat to reduce and thicken further.
- Flavor Profile: Play around with different types of mustard or add other seasonings like paprika or lemon zest to vary the flavor profile of your sauce.
- Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor without using cheese, sprinkle some nutritional yeast into your sauce during the last minute of cooking.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a velvety pasta sauce that's both light and satisfying—perfect for those looking for a dairy-free or lighter option.