Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my creamy roasted red pepper pasta! It’s one of those dishes that just wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. The combination of sweet roasted red peppers, rich heavy cream, and fragrant garlic creates a flavor profile that’s absolutely irresistible. I whip this up when I need a quick yet satisfying meal, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it’s perfect for those nights when I want something comforting without meat. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen too. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients for Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this roasted red pepper pasta absolutely divine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz of your favorite pasta (I love using penne or fettuccine for that perfect sauce cling!)
- 2 roasted red peppers, peeled and seeded (store-bought or homemade, both work wonderfully!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best, trust me on this one)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (a little drizzle for flavor and richness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (seasoning is essential!)
- Fresh basil for garnish (adds a pop of color and flavor, plus it smells amazing!)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also visually stunning. So, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious roasted red pepper pasta! It’s super simple, and I’m here to guide you through each step.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in 8 ounces of your favorite pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. I like to check for doneness a minute or two before the time is up; you want it al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it! Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of that pasta water just in case we need it later.
Step 2: Blend the Sauce
Now, grab your blender! Add the 2 roasted red peppers, 1 cup of heavy cream, the 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until you get a smooth, velvety consistency. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or a bit of the reserved pasta water. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s creamy and delightful!
Step 3: Heat the Sauce
Next, pour that beautiful red pepper sauce into a pan over medium heat. Stir it gently and let it warm through for about 5 minutes. You want it nice and hot but be careful not to let it boil; we just want to bring out all those wonderful flavors!
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your sauce is heated, it’s time to introduce the pasta! Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss it in the sauce until it’s all well-coated. Trust me, this is where the magic happens—make sure every piece of pasta gets a good hug from that creamy sauce!
Step 5: Add Cheese and Season
Now, sprinkle in the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it in until it melts and creates a beautiful creamy texture. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors, so taste as you go—add a little more cheese or seasoning if you feel it needs it!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finally, plate your roasted red pepper pasta and garnish with fresh basil. It’s not just for looks; that fresh aroma and flavor elevate the dish even more! Serve it hot, and enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite. You can even pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Tips for Success
To ensure your roasted red pepper pasta turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips I swear by! First, use the best-quality roasted red peppers you can find—whether jarred or homemade, the flavor makes a huge difference. If you want a creamier sauce, feel free to add a splash more heavy cream or even a dollop of cream cheese for an extra rich texture. Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Taste as you go—sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of freshly cracked pepper can elevate the flavors dramatically. Lastly, if you’ve got some fresh herbs on hand, like thyme or oregano, toss them in for a delightful twist! Trust me, these little tips will take your dish from good to amazing!
Variations of Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this roasted red pepper pasta! For a burst of freshness, try adding a handful of baby spinach or arugula right at the end—just toss it in with the hot pasta and let it wilt slightly. You could also mix in some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies. If you’re looking to spice things up, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
Want some protein? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be fantastic additions! For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or cashew cream. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own!
Nutritional Information for Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. For each serving of this creamy roasted red pepper pasta, you can expect around 600 calories, 40g of fat, 15g of protein, and 50g of carbohydrates. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that packs a flavorful punch while still being vegetarian-friendly. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ about Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Got questions about my creamy roasted red pepper pasta? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries you might have:
Can I make this roasted red pepper pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. It works just as well and still tastes amazing!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if it gets too thick.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
You can, but I recommend freezing the sauce separately from the pasta. The sauce freezes well for about a month. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating and mixing with freshly cooked pasta!
What can I add to switch things up?
Feel free to mix in some grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also try different herbs or spices to change the flavor profile!
Is this pasta dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This roasted red pepper pasta is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out in containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
- Quick to make, ready in just 25 minutes!
- Easy ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- Creamy texture that feels indulgent without being heavy.
- Vegetarian-friendly, perfect for meatless meals.
- Flavor-packed with sweet roasted red peppers and aromatic garlic.
This dish is not just about taste; it’s about making cooking fun and accessible for everyone!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Pasta Primavera or Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Spinach. If you’re interested in the health benefits of roasted red peppers, you can learn more about them here.
Imprimer
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta: 5 Mouthwatering Secrets to Try
- Temps Total: 25 minutes
- Rendement: 2 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Creamy roasted red pepper pasta with garlic and herbs.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 roasted red peppers
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, heavy cream, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
- In a pan, heat the red pepper sauce over medium heat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Adjust spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 15 minutes
- Catégorie: Pasta
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 400mg
- La graisse: 40g
- Graisses Saturées: 20g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 15g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 15g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 100mg
Mots-clés: roasted red pepper pasta, creamy pasta, vegetarian pasta
