Pasta with Bell Pepper Cream Sauce – A Flavorful First Course
When it comes to simple yet satisfying pasta dishes, nothing beats the rich and vibrant flavors of a creamy bell pepper sauce. This Pasta con Crema di Peperoni recipe delivers the perfect combination of sweet roasted peppers, juicy tomatoes, and the aromatic touch of fresh basil, all combined into a silky sauce that coats each piece of pasta. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish promises to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne Rigate (organic) | 320g |
| Red Bell Peppers | 400g |
| Ripe Tomatoes | 250g |
| Garlic Clove | 1 |
| Fresh Basil | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil for cooking the pasta. While waiting for the water to heat up, take the red bell peppers and give them a good rinse under cold water. Cut off the tops of the peppers, remove the seeds, and slice them lengthwise into smaller cubes. Set them aside. Next, roughly chop the ripe tomatoes into small chunks. This mixture of peppers and tomatoes will form the base of the creamy sauce. -
Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Peel and crush the garlic clove (leaving the skin on), then add it to the hot oil. Let the garlic infuse the oil with its fragrance, stirring occasionally, until it begins to turn golden (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked. -
Cook the Peppers and Tomatoes
Add the diced bell peppers and chopped tomatoes to the pan with the garlic. Season with a pinch of fine salt and a few twists of black pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the vegetables are coated in the aromatic oil. Let the mixture cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers soften and the tomatoes break down, releasing their juices. If the mixture seems too dry, feel free to add a splash of water to help create a sauce. -
Cook the Pasta
Once the sauce is simmering and fragrant, add the penne rigate to the boiling water. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta – this starchy water will be used later to help bring the sauce and pasta together. -
Make the Creamy Bell Pepper Sauce
Transfer the cooked pepper and tomato mixture into a high-sided blender or food processor. Blend everything until smooth and creamy, forming a luscious, velvety sauce. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce – it should be smooth but not too thick. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pan if you prefer to keep things simple. -
Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Pour the creamy bell pepper sauce back into the pan or a large skillet over low heat. Add a ladle of the pasta cooking water to the sauce, stirring to combine. This will help the sauce cling to the pasta and make it silkier. Add the cooked penne rigate to the pan and toss it gently to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Finish with Fresh Basil
Once the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce, transfer it to serving plates. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves torn by hand, which will add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. The basil’s subtle sweetness and aroma complement the richness of the pepper cream sauce perfectly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Your Pasta con Crema di Peperoni is now ready to be served! This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, and a side of garlic bread to mop up any leftover sauce. Enjoy the creamy, slightly smoky flavors of roasted peppers in every bite.
Pro Tips:
- Make it vegan: Use a plant-based pasta and skip any cheese garnishes for a completely vegan version of this dish.
- Adding protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken or crispy pancetta on top of the pasta.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of chili flakes when cooking the peppers to give the sauce a spicy kick.
This Pasta con Crema di Peperoni recipe brings together the flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients with the richness of a creamy sauce, making it a standout option for any weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The balance of sweet bell peppers, tomatoes, and basil creates a harmonious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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