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Creamy Spinach Tofu Shells Recipe

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4 from 13 reviews

Creamy Spinach Tofu Shells is a hearty and delicious vegan pasta dish featuring tender medium shells cooked in flavorful broth and coated in a creamy, plant-based tofu and vegan mozzarella sauce. Enhanced with garlic, spinach, and bright lemon zest, this recipe is perfect for a comforting yet nutritious meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Pasta and Broth

  • 1 pound medium shells or another short pasta
  • 4 cups vegan chicken broth

Tofu Sauce

  • 1 14-ounce block firm tofu, drained & pressed
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk
  • 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella (Trader Joe's recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 8 ounces frozen spinach, thawed & drained
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and broth to a stock pot and bring to a boil. Boil for about 8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
  2. Prepare Tofu Sauce: While the pasta cooks, combine the firm tofu, garlic cloves, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and creamy for the sauce base.
  3. Combine and Simmer: Without draining the pasta, add the tofu mixture, non-dairy milk, shredded vegan mozzarella, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and the thawed spinach directly into the pot. Stir continuously for approximately 5 minutes until the pasta finishes cooking and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  4. Add Fresh Elements: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh basil to brighten the dish. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed for seasoning.
  5. Serve: Serve the creamy spinach tofu shells warm, with extra freshly ground black pepper on top if desired for added flavor.

Notes

  • Pressing the tofu well helps achieve a smoother and creamier sauce texture.
  • Do not drain the pasta water; it helps to create the sauce and cook the pasta further.
  • For best flavor, use freshly chopped basil and freshly grated lemon zest.
  • This dish is vegan and can be made gluten-free by swapping the pasta for a gluten-free variety.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually, as the broth and vegan cheese can add saltiness.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/creamy-spinach-tofu-shells-recipe/