Bell Pepper & Cheese Macaroni Recipe
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Bell Pepper & Cheese Macaroni, a dish that beautifully melds the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables with the comforting essence of cheesy pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this Italian-inspired recipe brings a burst of color and flavor to your table, while being entirely vegetarian.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Del Monte Chifferi Rigati Pasta (macaroni) | 2 cups |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, cut into stripes |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, cut into stripes |
| Onion | 1, sliced |
| Green Chillies | 3, slit |
| Salt | To taste |
| Dried Oregano | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Dried Basil Leaves | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1-1/2 tablespoons |
| Mozzarella Cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information
While exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements, this dish generally offers a hearty serving of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making it a balanced meal option.
Preparation Time
| Time Component | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 mins |
| Cook Time | 30 mins |
| Total Time | 40 mins |
Servings
| Serving Size | Number of Servings |
|---|---|
| 2 |
Instructions
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Preparation: Begin by gathering all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. It’s always helpful to have everything ready at hand.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly.
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Add Bell Peppers: Incorporate the red and green bell peppers into the pan. Continue to sauté until the peppers are tender, which should take about 3 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for vegetable tenderness.
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Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper powder, slit green chilies, and salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Combine with Macaroni: Add the boiled Chifferi Rigati pasta to the pan, tossing everything together. Sauté for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the flavorful vegetable mixture.
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Cheesy Finish: Transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe bowl and generously sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
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Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat on high power for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve your Bell Pepper & Cheese Macaroni hot, paired with crusty focaccia or garlic bread, and perhaps some crispy zucchini fries on the side. For added flavor, consider offering dips like yogurt or your favorite sauces to enhance the dish even further.
This Bell Pepper & Cheese Macaroni recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that will please both the eyes and the palate. Enjoy this delightful dish as a perfect weeknight dinner or as a comforting weekend treat!
