Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Simple and Flavorful Dish

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If you’re in search of a quick, delicious meal, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is not only simple; it bursts with a rich, vibrant flavor that will impress your family. With just a few ingredients like red bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil, you can create a sauce that transforms any pasta into a gourmet dish. Let’s dive in and make cooking fun and easy!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful and Rich: This roasted red pepper pasta is bursting with flavor, thanks to the charred peppers and aromatic garlic, making every bite a delight.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
  3. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and make it dairy-free, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish to their preference.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan, this pasta not only tastes amazing but looks stunning on any dinner table.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

Red bell peppers: These peppers bring a sweet and smoky taste to the dish. Roasting them enhances their natural flavors, making them rich and vibrant. Fresh red bell peppers are key to achieving that perfect sauce.

Olive oil: This oil adds depth and a fruity flavor to the sauce. It also helps sauté the garlic, releasing its aroma and enhancing the overall taste. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Other essential ingredients:

Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice kick and depth to the sauce. I use minced garlic for a stronger flavor.

Vegetable broth: This helps to create a smooth and savory sauce. It adds more flavor than just water.

Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine works great. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a fun twist!

Salt and pepper: These seasonings are essential. They enhance all the flavors in the dish.

Parmesan cheese (optional): This adds a salty and creamy touch. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast.

Fresh basil leaves: These are perfect for garnishing. They add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Roasted Red Peppers

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps the peppers roast well.

2. Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step keeps them from sticking.

3. Roast the peppers for 20-25 minutes. Look for charred and blistered skins. This adds great flavor.

4. Let the peppers cool for a few minutes. Then, peel off the skins. They should come off easily.

5. Chop the roasted peppers into small pieces. This helps them mix well in the sauce.

Making the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use about 3 tablespoons.

2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Combine the chopped peppers with 1 cup of vegetable broth in the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This builds flavor.

4. Blend the mixture until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender. This makes a creamy sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This water helps adjust the sauce later.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.

2. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Use tongs for better mixing.

3. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with the reserved pasta water. Add it a little at a time. This makes the sauce cling better.

4. Add grated Parmesan cheese if you like. It adds creaminess and flavor. Stir until it melts into the sauce.

Enjoy your Roasted Red Pepper Pasta! It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

Why salt is key: Salt adds flavor to your pasta. It helps the pasta taste better. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water. This makes a big difference.

Avoiding overcooked pasta: Cook your pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm when bitten. Start checking it a minute or two before the package time ends. If you cook it too long, it becomes mushy.

Sauce Consistency Adjustments

Using pasta water: Always save a cup of pasta water. This water has starch and helps the sauce stick to the pasta. If your sauce is too thick, add a little water until you get the right consistency.

Thickening or thinning the sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it cook a bit longer. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer off some liquid. If it’s too thick, add more pasta water or broth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Use them within 3-5 days for best flavor. You can also freeze the sauce for later use.

Reheating without losing texture: To reheat, use low heat on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to help the sauce stay creamy. Stir often to avoid sticking.

Pro Tips

  1. Roasting Peppers for Maximum Flavor: Ensure the skin of the peppers is well-charred for a deeper, smokier flavor. It enhances the sweetness of the peppers and gives the sauce a rich taste.
  2. Adjusting Spice Levels: The red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your heat preference. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more if you like it spicier.
  3. Using Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It’s starchy and helps to bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamy texture.
  4. Garnishing with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness!

Variations

Dairy-Free Alternatives

You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This change keeps the dish creamy and rich. Coconut cream adds a light sweetness, balancing the peppers’ flavor.

Nutritional yeast is a great cheese substitute. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. Just add a few tablespoons for a savory kick.

Protein Additions

Want to make this meal heartier? Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown for extra flavor. Shrimp cooks quickly, adding a lovely seafood taste. Tofu is a great plant-based option and absorbs the sauce well.

These proteins turn your pasta into a complete meal. Just toss in your choice before serving.

Flavor Tweaks

Herbs and spices can change the dish’s flavor. Consider adding fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. These herbs brighten the sauce and enhance its taste.

You can also add vegetables for more nutrition. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms blend well in this dish. They add texture and color, making it more appealing.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your roasted red pepper pasta fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the pasta cool before sealing it. In the refrigerator, your leftovers will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pasta. It lasts in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date.

Reheating Techniques

When it’s time to reheat, the best method is the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently to heat it through. You can also use the microwave, but cover the dish to trap steam. This helps to heat evenly. Avoid high heat, as it can dry out the sauce or pasta. Always check the temperature before serving to enjoy it warm and tasty.

FAQs

How can I make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta vegan?

To make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta vegan, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. You can swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast. This will keep the dish creamy and add a cheesy flavor without dairy. Use vegetable broth to ensure all ingredients are plant-based.

What can I serve with Roasted Red Pepper Pasta?

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta pairs well with simple side dishes. A fresh garden salad adds crunch and color. Garlic bread is great for soaking up sauce. Roasted vegetables also work nicely. Consider serving steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients.

How to enhance the flavor of the dish?

To boost flavor, add more garlic or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness. A squeeze of lemon juice can give a nice zing. For a savory touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika. You can explore different cheeses for a richer taste.

Can I use jarred roasted red peppers instead?

Yes, you can use jarred roasted red peppers. They save time and are always tender. However, fresh peppers offer a more vibrant flavor. Jarred options may contain added salt or preservatives, so check labels. If you choose jarred, rinse them to reduce salt content.

Roasted red pepper pasta is a delightful dish filled with essential ingredients. We explored the importance of red bell peppers, olive oil, and the right seasonings. You learned to roast peppers, make a smooth sauce, and cook pasta perfectly. Remember to save pasta water for the best sauce. Consider dairy-free options, and don’t forget to add protein for a complete meal. Store and reheat dishes wisely to keep them tasty. With these tips, you can enjoy a flavorful and customizable pasta dish any time. Enjoy your cooking journe

- Red bell peppers: These peppers bring a sweet and smoky taste to the dish. Roasting them enhances their natural flavors, making them rich and vibrant. Fresh red bell peppers are key to achieving that perfect sauce. - Olive oil: This oil adds depth and a fruity flavor to the sauce. It also helps sauté the garlic, releasing its aroma and enhancing the overall taste. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. - Other essential ingredients: - Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice kick and depth to the sauce. I use minced garlic for a stronger flavor. - Vegetable broth: This helps to create a smooth and savory sauce. It adds more flavor than just water. - Cream: Heavy cream gives a rich texture. You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. - Pasta: Spaghetti or fettuccine works great. Choose your favorite pasta shape for a fun twist! - Salt and pepper: These seasonings are essential. They enhance all the flavors in the dish. - Parmesan cheese (optional): This adds a salty and creamy touch. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast. - Fresh basil leaves: These are perfect for garnishing. They add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat helps the peppers roast well. 2. Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step keeps them from sticking. 3. Roast the peppers for 20-25 minutes. Look for charred and blistered skins. This adds great flavor. 4. Let the peppers cool for a few minutes. Then, peel off the skins. They should come off easily. 5. Chop the roasted peppers into small pieces. This helps them mix well in the sauce. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Use about 3 tablespoons. 2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. 3. Combine the chopped peppers with 1 cup of vegetable broth in the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. This builds flavor. 4. Blend the mixture until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender. This makes a creamy sauce. 1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. 2. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This water helps adjust the sauce later. 1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. 2. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Use tongs for better mixing. 3. Adjust the sauce's consistency with the reserved pasta water. Add it a little at a time. This makes the sauce cling better. 4. Add grated Parmesan cheese if you like. It adds creaminess and flavor. Stir until it melts into the sauce. Enjoy your Roasted Red Pepper Pasta! It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal. - Why salt is key: Salt adds flavor to your pasta. It helps the pasta taste better. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of salt for every 4-6 quarts of water. This makes a big difference. - Avoiding overcooked pasta: Cook your pasta until it is al dente. This means it should be firm when bitten. Start checking it a minute or two before the package time ends. If you cook it too long, it becomes mushy. - Using pasta water: Always save a cup of pasta water. This water has starch and helps the sauce stick to the pasta. If your sauce is too thick, add a little water until you get the right consistency. - Thickening or thinning the sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it cook a bit longer. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer off some liquid. If it’s too thick, add more pasta water or broth. - Storing leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Use them within 3-5 days for best flavor. You can also freeze the sauce for later use. - Reheating without losing texture: To reheat, use low heat on the stove. Add a splash of water or broth to help the sauce stay creamy. Stir often to avoid sticking. Pro Tips Roasting Peppers for Maximum Flavor: Ensure the skin of the peppers is well-charred for a deeper, smokier flavor. It enhances the sweetness of the peppers and gives the sauce a rich taste. Adjusting Spice Levels: The red pepper flakes can be adjusted based on your heat preference. Start with a small amount, as you can always add more if you like it spicier. Using Pasta Water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! It’s starchy and helps to bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamy texture. Garnishing with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness! {{image_2}} You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This change keeps the dish creamy and rich. Coconut cream adds a light sweetness, balancing the peppers' flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great cheese substitute. It gives a cheesy taste without dairy. Just add a few tablespoons for a savory kick. Want to make this meal heartier? Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown for extra flavor. Shrimp cooks quickly, adding a lovely seafood taste. Tofu is a great plant-based option and absorbs the sauce well. These proteins turn your pasta into a complete meal. Just toss in your choice before serving. Herbs and spices can change the dish's flavor. Consider adding fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. These herbs brighten the sauce and enhance its taste. You can also add vegetables for more nutrition. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms blend well in this dish. They add texture and color, making it more appealing. To keep your roasted red pepper pasta fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to let the pasta cool before sealing it. In the refrigerator, your leftovers will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pasta. It lasts in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date. When it's time to reheat, the best method is the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently to heat it through. You can also use the microwave, but cover the dish to trap steam. This helps to heat evenly. Avoid high heat, as it can dry out the sauce or pasta. Always check the temperature before serving to enjoy it warm and tasty. To make Roasted Red Pepper Pasta vegan, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream. You can swap Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast. This will keep the dish creamy and add a cheesy flavor without dairy. Use vegetable broth to ensure all ingredients are plant-based. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta pairs well with simple side dishes. A fresh garden salad adds crunch and color. Garlic bread is great for soaking up sauce. Roasted vegetables also work nicely. Consider serving steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients. To boost flavor, add more garlic or red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness. A squeeze of lemon juice can give a nice zing. For a savory touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika. You can explore different cheeses for a richer taste. Yes, you can use jarred roasted red peppers. They save time and are always tender. However, fresh peppers offer a more vibrant flavor. Jarred options may contain added salt or preservatives, so check labels. If you choose jarred, rinse them to reduce salt content. Roasted red pepper pasta is a delightful dish filled with essential ingredients. We explored the importance of red bell peppers, olive oil, and the right seasonings. You learned to roast peppers, make a smooth sauce, and cook pasta perfectly. Remember to save pasta water for the best sauce. Consider dairy-free options, and don't forget to add protein for a complete meal. Store and reheat dishes wisely to keep them tasty. With these tips, you can enjoy a flavorful and customizable pasta dish any time. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring roasted red peppers and garlic, perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large red bell peppers
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound spaghetti or fettuccine
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  • Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them cut side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins and roughly chop the peppers.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  • Add the chopped roasted red peppers to the skillet and pour in the vegetable broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  • Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a blender), blend the mixture until smooth. Return the blended sauce back to the skillet and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to heat through.
  • Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
  • Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce in the skillet. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese if using, allowing it to melt into the sauce.

Notes

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top. For added flair, drizzle a little olive oil over the serving and add a few chili flakes for color.
Keyword pasta, roasted red pepper, vegetarian

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