While waiting for pasta water to boil and pasta to cook, combine all sauce ingredients (everything but the pasta and the toppings, of course) in a blender and blend 'til smooth. Taste and correct seasonings.
Drain pasta and place in a large mixing bowl. Pour sauce over and toss to combine. Stir in toppings & proteins, if desired. Serve immediately--do not reheat.
Notes
Add toppings & proteins as you like.Adapted from Oh She Glows