Description
This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, flavorful sauce made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and a hint of smoked paprika. Enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, it’s a comforting and easy-to-make vegetarian meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add the drained roasted red peppers, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine sauce and pasta: Return the blended sauce to the skillet and warm it over low heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy roasted red pepper pasta!
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein.
- Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
