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Creamy roasted red pepper pasta is a dish that combines vibrant flavors, rich textures, and a hint of gourmet sophistication, making it a favorite among both home cooks and professional chefs. This delightful meal is not just about satisfying your hunger; it's an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you craving more. The smooth, creamy sauce, infused with the sweet and smoky essence of roasted red peppers, envelops perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Discover the delightful taste of creamy roasted red pepper pasta, a perfect blend of vibrant flavors and rich textures. This dish features roasted red peppers that add a sweet and smoky essence to a creamy sauce, enveloping perfectly cooked penne pasta. Versatile and adaptable, it caters to various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic choice for any table. Packed with nutrients and beautiful in presentation, this pasta is both comforting and indulgent. Enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this culinary gem with loved ones.

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

3 large red bell peppers

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Roast the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred. Remove from the oven and place the peppers in a bowl covered with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

        Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the roasted red peppers, sautéed onions and garlic, heavy cream, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

          Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the roasted red pepper sauce into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir to combine. Add the drained pasta and toss until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

            Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly distributed throughout the pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

              Serve: Plate the creamy roasted red pepper pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your deliciously rich and flavorful dish!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4