Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 1 minute less than package directions.
Prep veggies: Slice onion into half-moons, mince garlic, cut courgette into chunks, and tear basil leaves.
Sear courgette: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Season courgette with salt and pepper, then sear until slightly charred but still firm. Set aside.
Sauté aromatics: Heat remaining olive oil in a non-stick wok. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in smoked paprika briefly.
Make sauce: Add plant-based cream, sriracha (to taste), and nutritional yeast. Simmer on low until pasta is done.
Combine: Transfer cooked pasta to the sauce with some pasta water. Thin sauce with pasta water if needed. Stir in half the courgette and basil.
Serve: Plate pasta and top with remaining courgette and basil. Enjoy!