Why Make This Recipe
This Vegan High Protein Sweet Potato Harissa Pasta is a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing nutrition. Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness, while silken tofu adds protein and creaminess. The harissa paste brings a spicy and flavorful kick, making every bite exciting. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
How to Make Vegan High Protein Sweet Potato Harissa Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 small sweet potato – cubed (about 2 cups)
- 1 bulb garlic – top cut off
- 1 block silken tofu
- 1 cup reserved pasta water (make sure that it is heavily salted for flavor)
- ¼ cup harissa paste
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste (I recommend ½ teaspoon)
- Pepper to taste (I recommend ¼ teaspoon)
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1/2 box pasta (if you are using Banza, this makes enough sauce for 1 full box)
- ½ cup finely chopped basil or parsley (for topping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- Add sweet potato and garlic to a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Lightly coat sweet potato with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 40-45 minutes, until sweet potatoes and garlic are browned.
- Add the cooked sweet potato and garlic cloves (removed from the bulb) to a blender along with the rest of the sauce ingredients.
- Blend until smooth.
- Mix the sauce with the cooked pasta and top with basil. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Vegan High Protein Sweet Potato Harissa Pasta
Serve this pasta dish warm, topped with freshly chopped basil or parsley. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Feel free to adjust the amount of harissa according to your spice preference.
How to Store Vegan High Protein Sweet Potato Harissa Pasta
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra pasta water if needed to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Vegan High Protein Sweet Potato Harissa Pasta
- Ensure your pasta water is well-salted, as this adds flavor to the entire dish.
- Don’t skip blending the sauce until smooth; this step ensures a creamy texture that coats the pasta well.
- Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs based on what you have or your personal taste preferences.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Feel free to swap harissa with your favorite spicy sauce, or use different herbs like cilantro for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
3. How spicy is this recipe?
The heat level can vary based on the harissa paste you choose. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference.