Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

This creamy roasted red pepper pasta brings together smoky sweet peppers and luscious sauce in under an hour making it one of my go to dinners for when I want something a little special but low effort Packed with flavor and silky smooth it gets rave reviews every time I make it

I still remember the first time I tossed hot pasta straight into this glossy sauce and watched everyone at my table go back for seconds It instantly became our rainy night favorite

Ingredients

• Jarred roasted red peppers: Essential for that sweet charred smokiness For fresh peppers roast until skins are blistered then peel and use for an even deeper flavor
• Tomato puree: Brings a tangy base and helps the sauce cling to your noodles Look for a rich deep red paste for best results
• Nutritional yeast: Adds cheesy notes without dairy Choose flakes for quick blending
• Cream cheese: Creates creaminess without being heavy Go for full fat style for best texture
• Salt and black pepper: Season to balance all the sauce flavors Use freshly cracked pepper for brightness
• Fresh garlic: Adds warmth and complexity Opt for large firm cloves for strongest flavor
• Spaghetti: Traditional choice for soaking up sauce Choose a classic wheat variety or swap for gluten free if needed
• Fresh parsley: Use for topping at the end Look for vibrant green bunches and chop just before serving for freshness
• Red chili flakes: Optional for a spicy finish A little goes a long way and you can add more at the table

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

Boil a pot of well salted water and add the spaghetti Stir occasionally so nothing sticks Cook until just al dente usually about ten minutes according to your pasta package Drain and save a few tablespoons of pasta water to loosen the sauce later

Blend the Red Pepper Sauce:

Combine roasted red peppers garlic tomato puree cream cheese nutritional yeast salt and pepper in a blender or food processor Blitz until completely smooth This makes your sauce velvety with no chunks left behind

Warm the Sauce:

Pour the blended sauce into a saucepan Set on low to medium heat Stir gently as the sauce warms through so it does not catch on the bottom This step deepens the flavors and helps everything melt together

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add your drained spaghetti straight to the warm sauce Toss well so each strand gets coated glossy and orange Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling and become silky

Finish and Serve:

Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley Finish with chili flakes if you like a little heat Serve immediately while creamy

Save

Every time I add fresh parsley at the end the aroma reminds me of Sunday dinners when my little one loved to scatter the herbs like confetti on every plate

Storage Tips

Keep leftover sauce in a tight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in a pan adding a splash of water to loosen Freeze sauce alone in small batches for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap cream cheese for a plain vegan version if you want dairy free Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber If out of roasted peppers try slow roasted tomatoes for a different spin

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a bright green salad and a crunchy garlic bread For added protein top with a few toasted walnuts or a scoop of ricotta cheese

Cultural Context

Roasting peppers is a traditional Mediterranean technique that brings a deep sweetness to both rustic and elegant pasta dishes No two homemade sauces taste the same because every cook has their own ratio of peppers and cheese

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred?

Yes, you can roast fresh red peppers at 400F (200C) for about 40 minutes until charred, then peel and blend as directed.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is a classic choice, but penne or fusilli also pair well with the creamy sauce and hold it nicely.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

→ How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red chili flakes to the sauce or sprinkle on top just before serving for extra heat and kick.

→ What sides complement this dish?

Serve with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

→ Can the sauce be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, the red pepper sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated; just reheat gently and toss with hot pasta.