Most pasta is naturally vegan, but some types contain eggs, butter, or milk. Packaged and boxed pasta is usually plant-based and made with just a few ingredients like semolina and enriched wheat flour. It’s fresh pasta that often includes animal products. Here’s what you need to know.
How Can You Tell if Your Pasta Is Vegan?
Check the ingredients list. Most dry pasta (the kind in a box or bag) is usually vegan and made with semolina or durum wheat and water.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Eggs
- Milk or Butter
- Squid Ink or Other Animal Additives
If you’re not sure, check for a vegan label or go for brands that are known to be plant-based.
What About the Sauce?
Sauce can make or break a vegan pasta dish. Here’s what to watch for:
- Tomato-based sauces – Usually vegan, but double-check for hidden dairy like cheese or cream.
- Pesto – Traditional pesto has Parmesan cheese, but you can find dairy-free versions or make your own.
- Alfredo & Creamy Sauces – Almost always contain milk, cream, or cheese. Look for plant-based alternatives.
- Meat-based sauces – Obvious, but some have hidden animal ingredients like beef broth.
If you’re buying pre-made sauce, check the label for milk, cream, butter, cheese, or eggs. If you’re making it at home, stick to simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs for an easy vegan option.
What’s the Safest Option?
Make your own sauce and use vegan pasta. That way, you control the ingredients. Here’s a simple vegan tomato sauce recipe that’s easy, delicious, and made with basic pantry staples.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3-4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- If the sauce is too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar. If it needs more flavor, adjust the salt and spices.
- If you want a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or regular blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
- Toss with your favorite vegan pasta and enjoy!
Summary
Pasta can be vegan, but not all types are. Most dry pasta is safe for a vegan diet. Fresh pasta might contain eggs. To be sure, read labels and check if there’s a vegan certification.
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