Step 1

Make the sauce: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.

Step 2

When the oil shimmers, add the onions, season with salt and black pepper and saute until they become translucent and start to brown around the edges, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3

In a blender, blitz together sauteed onions, soaked and drained cashews, peeled sweet potato (lightly mashed), vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, turmeric, cumin and cayenne. Blend until sauce is creamy, velvety and smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne.

Step 4

Make the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of starchy pasta water.

Step 5

Combine the sauce with the pasta. Add hot pasta water if necessary to thin out the sauce.

Step 6

Garnish each serving with cilantro or parsley.