Creamy Smoked Paprika Spirals

I have discovered two new ingredients in the last couple of weeks.  The first one being smoked paprika.  I really love the mild smoky flavour which definitely adds a punch to any dish, especially with this creamy sauce!  The second ingredient is nutritional yeast, which I’ve seen in a ton of recipes but have never tried it.  Nutritional yeast offers a nutty, cheesy and creamy texture and is often used as a cheese substitute.  It is an excellent source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (B’s) and minerals. 

I saw some fantastic looking pastas on the web this week and had to give it a try.  Could it really mimic cheesy goodness?  Oh yes it can.  We were WOWED with how ooey gooey cheesy and creamy this pasta was, kind of like Velveta shells and cheese.  Delicious.  I decided to use a hot smoked paprika, which tasted out standing.  If you are not a fan and prefer a basic creamy sauce, more like alfredo, then you can use regular paprika. 

This creamy sauce is very versatile and so quick to make.  You literally throw it into the blender, pour it over your cooked pasta, heat it through and enjoy! 

Ingredients:

(adapted from Vegan Yum Yum)

1 cup almond milk,          unsweetened
1/3 cup cashews, raw and unsalted
¼ cup nutritional yeast
1 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp tahini
2 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika for a basic cream sauce)
1 pinch nutmeg
2 cloves garlic
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
Ground pepper to taste






1.  Combine all the above ingredients into a blend and blend until smooth.  A high-speed blender (like the Vitamix) may get this sauce extra smooth, however a regular blender or food processor will work. 

2.       Cook about three quarters of a 16 oz. bag of pasta, drain and return it to the hot empty pan.   Pour over the sauce, place on medium heat and stir until heated through.  Makes 2-3 servings.

Enjoy!

Note:  This is a really versatile sauce.  For a basic creamy sauce use regular paprika, instead of the smoked.  This sauce is great over steamed veggies, in casseroles, as an alfredo sauce….you can do a lot with it. 

Food for Thought: 

Words of wisdom from Dr. Maya Angelou:
(from interview by Oprah on her 70+ birthday)

        "I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.'

        "I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands;  you need to be able to throw some things back."

        "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."