why make this recipe
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the creaminess of heavy cream. It is simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are rich and satisfying, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, it comes together quickly and can be customized to your taste.
how to make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Ingredients :
- pasta of choice
- roasted red peppers
- heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- garlic
- olive oil
- salt
- pepper
- seasonings (such as Italian herbs or red pepper flakes)
Directions :
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, heavy cream, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a saucepan, heat the roasted red pepper sauce over medium heat.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with additional Parmesan and parsley.
how to serve Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is best served fresh. Plate the pasta and top it with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. This dish pairs well with a light white wine, if desired.
how to store Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can add a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
tips to make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
- For more depth of flavor, roast your own red peppers. Simply char them on a grill or under a broiler until the skin is blistered, then peel and seed them.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste, and try adding other herbs for a unique twist.
variation
You can make this dish vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
FAQs
Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Yes, jarred roasted red peppers are a great shortcut and save time in the kitchen.
Can I freeze Roasted Red Pepper Pasta?
While it is best fresh, you can freeze the pasta without the sauce. Store the pasta and sauce separately for best results.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta works well with this sauce, but fettuccine or penne are popular choices for their ability to hold the creamy sauce.
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta of choice Fettuccine or penne are recommended
- 2 cups roasted red peppers Can use homemade or jarred
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with coconut cream for vegan version
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated; use nutritional yeast for vegan version
- 3 cloves garlic Adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil For blending and cooking
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- to taste seasonings (such as Italian herbs or red pepper flakes)
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, heavy cream, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a saucepan, heat the roasted red pepper sauce over medium heat.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with additional Parmesan and parsley.