Recipe by: Vegaliano

Serving: This recipe serves 2 people.

Looking for a satisfying and indulgent pasta dish? This Vegan Red Pesto Pasta with Bacon and Mozzarella is an absolute winner. With a rich tomato pesto, crispy vegan bacon, and gooey vegan mozzarella, it’s a flavorful, creamy dish that’ll impress any guest or make a quick weeknight dinner special.

The spaghettone pasta creates the perfect base for the bold flavors, and the red pesto brings a savory kick with its blend of sun-dried tomatoes and cashews. Paired with crispy bacon and melty cheese, this dish is comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy.

Fun Fact About Red Pesto: Red pesto, or Pesto Rosso, originated in Sicily and is made with sun-dried tomatoes, nuts (usually almonds or cashews), and herbs. It's a rich and flavorful alternative to the traditional green basil pesto, offering a sweeter, more intense flavor perfect for pasta dishes like this one!

Ingredients:

• 1 pack of spaghettone pasta
• 3-4 slices of vegan bacon
• 1 jar of red pesto
• Shredded vegan mozzarella
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Olive oil, for frying
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the Pasta:
   Cook the spaghettone pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Fry the Bacon:
   While the pasta is cooking, heat a little olive oil in a pan and fry the vegan bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
   In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the red pesto and stir to combine. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to thin the sauce.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the drained pasta to the pan with the pesto sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta in the sauce.
5. Add Bacon and Mozzarella:
   Slice the vegan bacon and add it to the pasta. Top with shredded vegan mozzarella and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
6. Season and Serve:
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

This Vegan Red Pesto Pasta with Bacon and Mozzarella is a creamy, savory dish that will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this plant-based pasta dish is sure to impress. Try it today and share your creations with us on Instagram using #VegalianoEats!

Swipe This for That Tip: For extra flavor, try adding some roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to the pasta. You can also sprinkle some vegan parmesan on top for a cheesy finish!