HEALTHY VEGAN PASTA ALFREDO WITH MUSHROOM BACON

Don't tell anyone, but this creamy PASTA ALFREDO WITH MUSHROOM BACON is secretly healthy. It is so good, and good for you, you can go back for seconds. Or thirds!

The base for this Alfredo sauce is cauliflower. When mixed with just a few simple ingredients, you are left with a creamy-dreamy sauce to add to your pasta. And, when combined with delicious mushroom bacon.... Mamma mia!

All of the taste with no guilt!

HEALTHY VEGAN ALFREDO PASTA WITH MUSHROOM BACON

WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

For the Alfredo sauce:

• 1 Tbsp neutral oil (EVOO, coconut, grape seed, etc.)

• 1/2 of a white onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2-1/2 cups fresh cauliflower florets

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or stock

• 1/2 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk

• 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese

• juice of 1/2 lemon

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 ounces pasta of choice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• pinch of salt

For the mushroom bacon:

• 6 to 8 baby bella mushrooms, sliced

• 2 Tbsp soy sauce or liquid aminos

• 1 Tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp Liquid Smoke

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• Pepper to taste

HOW TO MAKE IT:

1. Slice the mushrooms and mix together with the remaining ingredients. Let marinate for about 15 minutes.

2. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Set aside.

3. Place the marinated mushrooms on a baking sheet side by side. Place in a toaster oven to bake until nice and brown. They will become crispier after cooling.

4. Start on the sauce by heating the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

5. Add cauliflower florets and saute for another 2-3 minutes. Once slightly tender, add vegetable broth, cover and cook until cauliflower is soft all the way through, about 5 to 7 more minutes.

6. Transfer to a food processor and add remaining Alfredo Sauce ingredients. Blend until completely smooth. Set aside.

7. Toss noodles with the Alfredo Sauce. Add in the mushroom bacon. Top with vegan Parmesan, fresh parsley, and freshly ground pepper. Serve immediately.