Creamy Dairy-Free Chicken and Sausage Pasta

This dish combines tender chicken and savory sausage with gluten-free pasta, all enveloped in a rich, dairy-free cheese sauce made from cashews and nutritional yeast. The creamy texture and umami flavors create a satisfying meal that's perfect for those avoiding dairy and gluten, without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz gluten-free pasta
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 pound sausage (gluten-free, sliced)
• 1 cup spinach (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. If using, add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
6. Pour the dairy-free cheese sauce over the chicken and sausage, stirring to combine.
7. Add the cooked gluten-free pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional nutritional yeast or herbs if desired.