In the video titled “I Made The CHEAPEST Vegan Meals Possible (That still taste AMAZING)” by Edgy Veg, the YouTuber shares her favorite budget-friendly recipes using ingredients she already has. The first recipe is a copycat Crunch Wrap Supreme made with lentils and homemade nacho cheese. The second recipe is a lazy lasagna using red lentils, frozen vegetables, and canned crushed tomatoes. Lastly, she demonstrates how to make a budget-friendly fettuccine Alfredo using white beans and frozen peas. Throughout the video, she emphasizes that cheap meals can still look and taste good, making it ideal for those on a tight budget.

In this engaging video, Edgy Veg presents three wallet-friendly vegan recipes that don’t compromise on taste. From a cheap Crunch Wrap Supreme using lentils to a lazy lasagna made with red lentils and frozen vegetables, she shows that cooking on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. The video concludes with a recipe for a budget-friendly fettuccine Alfredo using white beans and frozen peas, proving that affordable meals can still be satisfying and delicious. If you’re looking for creative, cost-effective vegan recipes, this video is the perfect resource.

Budget-Friendly Fettuccine Alfredo: Tasty White Bean and Pea Dish

Overview

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet delicious vegan meal, then this recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo with white beans and peas is perfect for you. Not only is it easy to make, but it also uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this flavorful dish. We’ll also discuss the importance of budget-friendly meals and the benefits of using white beans and frozen peas in your cooking.

Ingredients

To make this budget-friendly fettuccine alfredo dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• White beans: These add a creamy texture to the sauce and provide a good source of protein.
• Frozen peas: They add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
• Fettuccine pasta: Choose a brand that fits your budget.
• Garlic: This aromatic ingredient enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• Vegetable broth: It adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Plant-based milk: Use your preferred variety, such as almond or soy milk, to make the sauce creamy.
• Nutritional yeast: This ingredient gives the sauce a cheesy flavor without the use of dairy.
• Lemon juice: It adds a refreshing tang to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Season the dish to your taste.
• Optional toppings: You can garnish the dish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese.

Preparation

Before you start cooking, there are a few preparations you need to make:

• Soaking and cooking white beans: If you’re using dried white beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender.
• Cooking fettuccine pasta: Follow the instructions on the package to cook the pasta until al dente.
• Thawing frozen peas: Place the frozen peas in a bowl and let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
• Prepping garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves, or you can use a garlic press for convenience.

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Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. Sauteing garlic: In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Adding white beans and peas: Stir in the cooked white beans and thawed peas, and cook for a few minutes until heated through.
3. Preparing the sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and nutritional yeast into the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
4. Combining the pasta and sauce: Drain the cooked fettuccine pasta and add it to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Simmering the dish: Allow the dish to simmer on low heat for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Adjusting seasonings: Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your budget-friendly fettuccine alfredo:

• Plating the fettuccine Alfredo: Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
• Garnishing options: You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, to add color and freshness.
• Accompaniments: Serve the dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to enhance your budget-friendly fettuccine alfredo:

• Substituting ingredients: If you don’t have white beans, you can use cannellini beans or chickpeas as a replacement. Additionally, you can swap the frozen peas for broccoli florets or sliced mushrooms.
• Adding additional vegetables: Feel free to incorporate more veggies into the dish, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, to add extra flavor and nutrients.
• Making it gluten-free: If you follow a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free fettuccine pasta or substitute it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Creamier or lighter versions: Adjust the creaminess of the sauce to your preference by adding more plant-based milk for a lighter version or blending some of the cooked white beans to make it creamier.
• Enhancing flavors: For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.

Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas

To help you with your budget-friendly cooking journey, here are a few other affordable vegan dishes you can try:

• Lentil Crunch Wrap Supreme: In this recipe, lentils are seasoned with taco seasoning and used as a substitute for ground beef. Top it off with homemade nacho cheese and use leftover tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Lazy Lasagna: Make a lasagna using red lentils, frozen vegetables, and canned crushed tomatoes instead of ground beef. This recipe is quick, easy, and wallet-friendly.
• Experiment with beans and legumes: Beans and legumes are not only affordable but also versatile ingredients that can be used in various dishes such as tacos, stews, and salads. Try different recipes using beans to add protein and flavor to your meals.

Nutritional Benefits

This budget-friendly fettuccine alfredo dish offers various nutritional benefits:

• High protein content from white beans: White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Vitamins and minerals from peas: Frozen peas provide essential vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin K, and minerals like iron and fiber.
• Health benefits of plant-based ingredients: This vegan dish is packed with nutrients, free from cholesterol, and low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy. It also provides plenty of dietary fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system.
• Caloric information: The caloric content of the dish depends on the portion size and ingredients used. However, this recipe leans towards being a lighter option compared to traditional fettuccine alfredo.

Visual Appeal

While this budget-friendly fettuccine alfredo may not look exactly the same as traditional versions, its visual appeal comes from the vibrant green peas and the creamy sauce coating the fettuccine noodles. The garnishing options also add a pop of color to the dish, making it visually appealing and inviting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, budget-friendly cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing taste and flavor. This recipe for Fettuccine Alfredo with white beans and peas proves that you can create a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. By using pantry staples like white beans, frozen peas, and some basic seasonings, you can whip up a creamy and nutritious dish that will impress your taste buds. So, give this recipe a try and enjoy the goodness of a budget-friendly meal that is both tasty and satisfying. Happy cooking!