Imagine twirling golden strands of perfectly cooked penne coated in a luscious, velvety rosé sauce that’s creamy, dreamy, and entirely plant-based. This Penne with Vegan Silken Tofu Rosé Sauce is comfort food elevated—a dish where the rich, tangy tomato flavor meets the delicate creaminess of silken tofu, creating a sauce so smooth it practically melts in your mouth. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can bring restaurant-quality vegan pasta straight to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Ready to dive into a plateful of pure, saucy bliss?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy – Thanks to silken tofu, the sauce is irresistibly silky without any dairy.
- Vegan-Friendly – Completely plant-based, yet full of flavor and indulgence.
- Quick and Easy – Perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in about 30 minutes.
- Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, fresh herbs, or spices for a personal touch.
- Comforting and Light – Creamy texture with a fresh tomato tang keeps it satisfying but not heavy.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Vegan Rosé Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 15 minutes) or 1 cup silken tofu
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Penne
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until fragrant and golden. You’ll notice the aroma of garlic filling your kitchen—a hint of the creamy delight to come.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce Base
In a blender, combine soaked cashews (or silken tofu), plant-based milk, and tomato paste. Blend until smooth and creamy. If using silken tofu, your sauce will be luxuriously silky with a subtle, nutty flavor.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet with sautéed aromatics. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually pour in the blended cashew/tofu mixture, stirring continuously. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until each piece is coated in the creamy rosé sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The sauce should cling beautifully to each penne, creating a silky, dreamy coating.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped basil. For an extra touch, drizzle a tiny bit of olive oil over the top and sprinkle a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy hint.
Tips & Variations
- Add Veggies: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach boost nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Increase red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.
- Cheesy Flavor: Stir in vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a richer taste.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or pasta shapes.
- Advance Prep: Make the sauce a day ahead—it tastes even better as flavors meld overnight.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread or bruschetta for a crunchy contrast
- Fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
- Reheating: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of plant milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Calories (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
Note: Based on 4 servings using silken tofu and standard penne pasta.
Conclusion
This Penne with Vegan Silken Tofu Rosé Sauce is a testament to how plant-based meals can be both indulgent and nourishing. Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect dish to impress family or friends—or just treat yourself to a comforting bowl of pasta perfection. Each bite is a harmonious blend of velvety sauce and tender pasta, leaving your taste buds dancing and your heart full. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or simply exploring plant-based dishes, this recipe promises to be a new favorite in your culinary rotation.
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