Vegan Alfredo with Veggies

1. Put cashews in a small bowl; add enough boiling water to cover. Let stand, covered, for 20 minutes. Drain, rinse, and drain again.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes, adding peas and carrots in the last minute of cooking. Drain. Return pasta mixture to the pot. Add mushrooms and spinach; cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until spinach is wilted.

4. Whisk 1 1/4 cups water and flour together in a small saucepan until smooth. Simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and pourable, about 3 minutes.

5. Transfer flour mixture to a blender; add soaked cashews, lemon juice, garlic, salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Blend until smooth.

6. Serve sauce over pasta mixture, sprinkled with additional pepper and lemon zest.

Cook's Note:

You can use fresh arugula instead of spinach.