Creamy Spinach and Roasted Pepper Pesto Pasta

Recipe: Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Spinach and Pepper Pesto

Category: Main Courses

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers:
   Begin by washing and drying the yellow bell peppers. Cut them into halves, remove the seeds, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Roast the peppers in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes or until the skin starts to char. The roasting process will give the peppers a rich smoky flavor that complements the pesto.

2. Make the Pesto:
   While the peppers roast, prepare the pesto. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh spinach, pine nuts, Pecorino cheese, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Blend until smooth, adjusting the texture with a bit more oil if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency. Set aside.

3. Peel the Roasted Peppers:
   Once the peppers are roasted, remove them from the oven and cover them with plastic wrap. Allow them to cool slightly at room temperature. After they have cooled, peel off the charred outer skin, which should come off easily.

4. Cook the Spaghetti:
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually for about 8 minutes, until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta cooking water before draining the spaghetti.

5. Combine Pasta and Pesto:
   While the pasta is cooking, cut the peeled peppers into thin strips. Once the pasta is drained, add it directly into a large pan with the prepared spinach pesto, which should be on low heat. Add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a smooth and creamy texture. Stir the pasta thoroughly so it is well-coated with the pesto.

6. Add the Peppers and Cheese:
   Stir in the roasted pepper strips into the pasta and pesto mixture. For an extra burst of flavor, add shaved ricotta cheese on top. Season the dish with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A sprinkle of oregano can be added for an aromatic touch.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve the pasta hot, immediately after mixing, for a delightful, fresh meal. The combination of roasted yellow peppers and creamy spinach pesto creates a wonderfully rich and flavorful dish. Enjoy the perfect balance of wholesome ingredients in every bite.

This Whole Wheat Spaghetti with Spinach and Pepper Pesto is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together earthy greens, sweet roasted peppers, and the bold flavors of Pecorino cheese. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal or a new way to enjoy your pasta, this recipe will surely become a go-to favorite!