Alfredo sauce is a creamy favorite, but it’s often low in protein and high in fat—making it less ideal for a balanced meal. This version keeps all the rich flavor while adding a protein boost.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or another non-dairy milk)
- 1 scoop Unflavored Whey Protein Isolate
- ½ cup unsweetened cashew cream (or dairy-free Greek yogurt)
- ¼ cup nutritional yeast (or grated dairy-free Parmesan)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for thickness)
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth (optional, for adjusting consistency)
Preparation
- Sauté the garlic: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare the protein mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the almond milk, protein powder, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
- Combine and cook: Pour the protein mixture into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Add the cashew cream, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it reaches a creamy consistency. If it gets too thick, add a little broth to adjust.
- Finish with flavor: Stir in the lemon juice to enhance the taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and enjoy: Pour over your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or protein-rich alternatives like chickpea pasta for a delicious and nutritious meal.
This Protein-Enriched Alfredo Sauce is a game-changer for those who love creamy pasta but want a healthier, high-protein alternative. By incorporating protein powder and dairy-free substitutes, you get a delicious, satisfying dish that supports your fitness goals without compromising on taste. Try it out and enjoy a guilt-free comfort meal!
