Indulge in the creamy richness of Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce, a delightful twist on traditional pasta sauces.
This recipe combines coconut milk’s smooth, velvety texture with aromatic garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice for a luscious, dairy-free alternative that’s perfect for any pasta dish.
The sauce offers a light yet flavorful profile, balancing savory and subtle coconut sweetness, creating a harmonious, satisfying, and refreshing blend.
Ideal for vegans and those seeking a new culinary experience, this coconut milk sauce is a versatile and delicious option to elevate your pasta game
How To Make Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce?
Preparation Times: 10 minutes
Cooking Times: 15 minutes
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Yields: Serves 2-3
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Pasta of choice (fettuccine or linguine recommended), cooked as per package instructions
Instructions
Step-1. Heat the oil
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. This step adds a layer of richness to the sauce.
Step-2. Sauté garlic and onion
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic and onion soften and their aroma fills the kitchen.
Step-3. Add bell pepper
Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The bell pepper adds sweetness and color to the sauce, creating a beautiful base.
Step-4. Pour in coconut milk
Slowly pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine with the other ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step-5. Season the sauce
Add salt and black pepper to taste. If you want a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. This seasoning step brings out the full depth of the sauce.
Step-6. Combine with cooked pasta
Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until each pasta strand is coated in the creamy coconut sauce.
Step-7. Garnish and serve
Top with freshly chopped basil or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. Serve hot, and enjoy the tropical twist on a classic pasta dish!
Nutrition Facts Of Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Serving Suggestions
❖ Topped with grilled vegetables: Add some color and extra nutrition by topping the pasta with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
❖ Paired with a side salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the coconut sauce.
❖ Add protein: This sauce pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply cook your protein of choice separately and add it on top or mix it into the pasta for a more filling meal.
❖ Accompanied by sautéed mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms in a bit of olive oil and garlic, then add them on top of the pasta for an earthy, savory layer that enhances the creamy sauce.
Tips and Variations
✔ Choose Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the sauce a creamy, rich texture. Light coconut milk may make the sauce thinner and less flavorful.
✔ Adjust Seasoning: If you prefer a spicy kick add extra red pepper flakes.
✔ Add Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the final minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
✔ Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for more heat.
✔ Herb Swap: Try parsley or chives instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
Special Note
This Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce is a great alternative for those who avoid dairy or want to explore new flavors. It’s quick, easy, and filled with satisfying ingredients that make any pasta night special.
FAQS
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. Consider simmering the sauce longer for a creamier texture if using light coconut milk.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick.
Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, this coconut milk pasta sauce is entirely vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets.
Conclusion
This coconut milk pasta sauce recipe brings a unique twist to classic pasta sauces, combining the creamy texture of coconut milk with savory garlic, onion, and bell pepper.
Perfect for anyone seeking a dairy-free pasta option with a hint of tropical flavor, it’s easy to make and adaptable for different tastes.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do—try it out and let the flavors transport you to a creamy paradise.
Coconut Milk Pasta Sauce
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper finely diced
- 1 can 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or cilantro chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Pasta of choice fettuccine or linguine recommended, cooked as per package instructions
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil until it shimmers. This step adds a layer of richness to the sauce.
- Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic and onion soften and their aroma fills the kitchen.
- Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The bell pepper adds sweetness and color to the sauce, creating a beautiful base.
- Slowly pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine with the other ingredients. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add salt and black pepper to taste. If you want a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes. This seasoning step brings out the full depth of the sauce.
- Once the sauce reaches your desired consistency add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until each pasta strand is coated in the creamy coconut sauce.
- Top with freshly chopped basil or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. Serve hot, and enjoy the tropical twist on a classic pasta dish!
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.