Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta: The Creamy Dish You’ll Crave Every Week

If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and downright delicious pasta dish, look no further than roasted red pepper pasta.

This creamy, savory delight is packed with rich flavors and easy to whip up on a weeknight. Whether cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this roasted red pepper pasta will occasionally hit the spot.

Let’s dive into this recipe and discover why it deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Why Roasted Red Pepper Pasta?

Roasted red pepper pasta isn’t just tasty—it’s versatile, too. It’s creamy without being heavy, and you can customize it to fit any dietary preference.

Plus, roasted red peppers’ sweet and smoky flavor takes your pasta to the next level. It’s also super easy to make. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal packed with flavor and nourishment.

Whether you’re a meat lover or following a vegan lifestyle, this dish can be adapted for all. Let’s explore how to make this creamy pasta from scratch and how you can make it your own!

Key Ingredients

Roasted Red Peppers: These are the star of the dish! You can either use jarred roasted red peppers or roast your own. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and smoky depth, making this pasta stand out.

Pasta: Penne, spaghetti, or fusilli work well here. Pick your favorite shape, or use whatever you’ve got on hand. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to all pasta shapes!

Cream or Non-Dairy Alternatives: A little cream does wonders for a rich and creamy texture. If you’re vegan, swap in coconut cream, cashew cream, or even oat milk for a lighter option that still achieves that creamy finish.

Garlic and Onion: These add a savory depth that balances out the sweetness of the peppers. Garlic also gives the sauce a wonderful fragrance as it cooks!

Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of olive oil helps create a silky sauce and adds richness to the dish.

Parmesan (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan on top is perfect for a bit of salty, umami goodness. You can skip it or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative if you’re vegan.

Herbs and Spices: Fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper are all you need to bring this dish together. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

The Magic of Roasted Red Peppers

So, what makes roasted red peppers so special? They’re loaded with vitamins A and C, making them a great addition to your diet.

Not only do they add a sweet, smoky flavor, but they’re also rich in antioxidants. Roasting them intensifies their natural flavors and makes blending into a smooth sauce easier.

If you’re using fresh peppers, you can roast them in the oven or on a grill. Simply cut them in half, remove the seeds, and place them under a broiler or on the grill until the skins are charred. Once cooled, peel away the skin, and you’re ready!

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Now, let’s get cooking. This recipe is simple and straightforward, but it delivers a big-time flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe:

Roast the Red Peppers: If you’re using fresh peppers, slice them in half, remove the seeds, and roast them under a broiler for about 10 minutes or until the skin is charred. Once done, let them cool before peeling off the skin. If you’re using jarred roasted red peppers, you’re halfway there!

Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic and onion until soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes. Then add the roasted peppers and cook for another 2 minutes to bring out their sweetness. Transfer this mixture to a blender or food processor, add cream (or your preferred alternative), salt, pepper, and herbs, and blend until smooth and creamy.

Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to cook it al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Combine and Toss: Once the pasta is done, add it back to the pot. Pour the roasted red pepper sauce over the pasta and toss everything together, adding a little pasta water to thin the sauce if needed. The sauce should be rich and creamy, coating every piece of pasta.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta, and if desired, top with a sprinkle of Parmesan, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for the perfect meal.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of roasted red pepper pasta lies in its versatility. You can add or change the ingredients based on what you like or have on hand.

  • Add-ins: Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for a protein boost or extra veggies. You could even throw in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist!
  • Vegan Version: Swap cream for coconut milk, cashew cream, or even a blend of soaked cashews and water for a super creamy texture without the dairy.
  • Gluten-Free Option: This meal can be made safe for those with dietary restrictions by using gluten-free pasta. The sauce remains just as delicious!

Pairing Suggestions

This roasted red pepper pasta pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its creamy texture.

  • Side Dishes: A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta. Or go for a classic side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

Conclusion

There you have it—a simple, creamy, and flavorful roasted red pepper pasta that will have you returning for seconds.

Whether looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this one checks all the boxes. You can play around with ingredients to make it your own, but the roasted red peppers really steal the show.

So go ahead, try this recipe, and enjoy the rich, smoky goodness it brings to your plate!

FAQs

Q: Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers are a great shortcut and still contain flavor. Just drain and rinse them before blending.

Q: How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a little heat, or stir in some finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the roasted red pepper sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and toss it with your freshly cooked pasta.

Q: What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, coconut cream, cashew cream, or oat milk make great substitutes for heavy cream in this recipe.

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

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