Roasted Red Pepper Penne Savory and Creamy Delight
Craving a rich, flavorful dish? Roasted Red Pepper Penne is your answer! This creamy delight blends roasted red peppers, heavy cream, and fresh basil for a satisfying meal. With easy steps and optional add-ins, it suits every taste. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a fancy gathering, you can make this dish shine. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the world of Roasted Red Pepper Penne!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The roasted red peppers combined with the creamy basil sauce create a rich and flavorful dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights while still being impressive enough for guests.
- Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients like pasta, cream, and fresh basil, this dish can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This penne dish stores well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Serving Suggestions
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread as a side dish
The main ingredients create a rich and creamy flavor for Roasted Red Pepper Penne. You need the penne pasta for a solid base. Roasted red bell peppers add sweetness and depth. Heavy cream gives the dish its smooth texture. Fresh basil brightens the taste, while grated Parmesan adds a salty finish.
Optional ingredients enhance the dish. Red pepper flakes give a spicy kick if you like heat. Salt and black pepper balance the flavors. Olive oil adds richness. Fresh basil leaves make a great garnish, adding both flavor and color.
For serving, I suggest adding extra Parmesan cheese on top. A side of crusty bread pairs well with the creamy pasta. It’s the perfect way to soak up every last drop of sauce. Feel free to get creative with your presentation!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Roasted Red Peppers
- Preheating the broiler or grill
Start by turning on the broiler or grill. Let it heat up for a few minutes.
- Roasting and steaming the peppers
Place the red bell peppers under the broiler or on the grill. Turn them often until the skin gets charred. This should take about 15 minutes. Once charred, put the peppers in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. This will help steam them for about 10 minutes.
- Peeling and chopping the peppers
After steaming, let the peppers cool down a bit. Once they are cool, peel off the charred skin. Remove the seeds and chop the peppers into small pieces.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boiling water and salting
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. The salt adds flavor to the pasta.
- Cooking penne to al dente
Add the penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook it according to the package directions until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard.
- Draining and reserving pasta water
Once the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander. Save a small cup of the pasta water for later.
Blending and Heating the Sauce
- Combining ingredients in a blender
In a blender, add the roasted red peppers, heavy cream, chopped basil, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
- Blending to a smooth consistency
Blend all the ingredients until you get a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Heating the sauce in a skillet
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, pour in the creamy red pepper sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Tossing penne with the sauce
After the sauce is warm, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss it until every piece is coated in sauce.
- Adding red pepper flakes if desired
If you like some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes and mix well.
Adjusting Seasoning and Serving
- Tasting and adjusting flavors
Take a moment to taste your dish. Add more salt and black pepper if needed to enhance the flavors.
- Plating and garnishing suggestions
Serve the pasta on plates or in bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a nice touch. Enjoy your meal hot for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Flavor Enhancement Tips
- Using fresh basil vs. dried basil: Fresh basil gives a bright, aromatic flavor. It makes the dish lively. Dried basil can work too, but it lacks that fresh taste. If you can, always use fresh basil for this recipe.
- Importance of reserving pasta water: When you cook pasta, save a cup of the water. This water is starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta. It can also thin out the sauce if it gets too thick.
Cooking Techniques
- Tips for roasting red peppers perfectly: Preheat your broiler or grill. Place the red peppers directly under the heat. Turn them often until the skin is blackened and blistered. This usually takes about 15 minutes. After roasting, let them steam in a covered bowl. This makes peeling easier.
- Using a food processor vs. a blender: A food processor can chop the peppers well, but a blender makes the sauce creamier. Use a blender for a smooth sauce. If you don’t have one, a food processor will still work. Just blend until it is smooth.
Presentation Tips
- Serving in deep bowls: Serving your dish in deep bowls makes it look fancy. It also keeps the sauce contained, making it easier to eat.
- Drizzling olive oil and garnishing: A drizzle of olive oil on top adds shine and flavor. Place a few whole basil leaves on top for color. You can also sprinkle more Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Pro Tips
- Roasting Perfection: To achieve the best flavor, ensure your red peppers are fully charred. This enhances the sweetness and smokiness of the sauce.
- Fresh Basil Boost: Add fresh basil leaves just before serving for a vibrant color and fresh flavor that elevates the dish.
- Pasta Water Magic: Reserve some pasta water and add it to the sauce if you need to loosen it up after combining with the pasta.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Variations
Vegan Option
To make Roasted Red Pepper Penne vegan, you can swap heavy cream. Use coconut cream for a rich, creamy texture. Another good choice is cashew cream. Simply soak cashews in water, blend them with a bit of water until smooth, and use it in place of cream. For cheese alternatives, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor. You can also use vegan cheese if you prefer.
Protein Additions
You can add protein to your dish. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage work well. Cook them separately and mix them in with the pasta. If you want vegetarian options, consider chickpeas or lentils. These provide great protein without meat. Tofu is another option; just sauté it before adding to the dish.
Flavor Variations
Adjust spice levels by using different peppers. For more heat, choose spicy peppers like jalapeños. You can also add red pepper flakes for a kick. Adding veggies is a fun way to change the dish. Zucchini or spinach complement the flavors nicely. Just sauté them briefly before mixing them into the pasta for added texture and taste.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To keep your Roasted Red Pepper Penne fresh, store leftovers in airtight containers. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. You can safely refrigerate the pasta for about three days. If you wait too long, the sauce may separate and lose its creamy texture.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, the best method is to use the stove. Heat a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra cream to the pasta. This will help keep the sauce creamy as you stir. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta dry.
Freezing Guidance
If you want to enjoy this dish later, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers. It stays good for up to three months. When it’s time to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little cream to revive the sauce.
FAQs
What can I substitute for heavy cream in Roasted Red Pepper Penne?
You can use several lighter options. Here are a few:
- Half-and-half: It gives creaminess with less fat.
- Coconut milk: This adds a touch of sweetness.
- Greek yogurt: This is a healthy choice and adds tang.
- Cashew cream: Blend soaked cashews for a rich, vegan option.
How can I make Roasted Red Pepper Penne spicier?
To add spice, consider these ideas:
- Add more red pepper flakes for heat.
- Toss in diced jalapeños for a fresh kick.
- Use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken.
- Try a dash of hot sauce right before serving.
Can I use jarred roasted peppers instead?
Yes, jarred roasted peppers work well. Here are some pros and cons:
- Pros: They save time and are easy to find.
- Cons: They may have added salt or preservatives. Freshly roasted peppers have a deeper flavor.
How long does it take to make Roasted Red Pepper Penne?
The total time is about 30 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Prep time is around 15 minutes.
- Cooking time takes about 15 minutes.
Is Roasted Red Pepper Penne suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Here are some tips:
- Cook the pasta al dente to keep it firm.
- Store the sauce and pasta separately to avoid sogginess.
- Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
This blog covered how to make Roasted Red Pepper Penne. We discussed key ingredients, including penne pasta and roasted red peppers. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide you in preparing the dish. You learned tips for enhancing flavor and variations to try.
In the end, this recipe is simple and tasty. Whether you keep it classic or try variations, enjoy your delicious mea
Roasted Red Pepper Penne with Creamy Basil Sauce
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- to garnish Fresh basil leaves
- to serve Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Roast the Red Peppers: Start by preheating your broiler or grill. Once hot, place the red bell peppers underneath, turning them occasionally until the skin is evenly charred and blistered, which should take about 15 minutes. After roasting, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let them steam for approximately 10 minutes. This will make peeling easier. Once cooled, remove the skin, discard the seeds, and chop the peppers into smaller pieces.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of the pasta water. Set the drained pasta aside.
- Blend the Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, heavy cream, chopped basil leaves, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Heat the Sauce: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, pour in the creamy red pepper sauce. Allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the sauce is warmed through, introduce the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce until every piece is evenly coated. If you prefer a bit of spice, add the red pepper flakes at this stage and mix well.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and black pepper if necessary to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve: Transfer the pasta onto plates or bowls, garnishing each serving with fresh basil leaves and a light sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor.
![- Shrimp: Use 1 pound of large shrimp. Fresh shrimp works best. Look for shrimp that is pink and firm. Avoid shrimp that smells strong or has a slimy texture. - Honey: Use pure honey for the best flavor. Clover honey or wildflower honey both work well. They add the right sweetness without being too strong. - Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is best. It gives a bright, zesty flavor. If you use bottled lime juice, choose one with no added sugars for a true taste. - Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce. This keeps the dish from being too salty. It adds depth without overpowering other flavors. - Fresh Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh taste. If you don’t like cilantro, try parsley as a mild substitute. - Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges with the dish boosts the flavor. Squeezing fresh lime juice on the shrimp adds a nice zing. For the full recipe, check the details above. Start by whisking together the marinade ingredients in a bowl. This mixture includes honey, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Blending these ingredients well is key. It helps the flavors combine and coat the shrimp evenly. The honey adds sweetness, while lime juice gives a zesty kick. Soy sauce brings depth, and garlic and ginger add warmth. This blend will make your shrimp burst with flavor. Once you have the marinade ready, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Make sure each shrimp gets a good coat of the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit. The best time for marinating is 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the shrimp to soak up the flavors. If you let it sit too long, the acid from the lime juice can change the shrimp's texture. Now it's time to cook! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers before adding the shrimp. This heat ensures a good sear. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet, but remember to save any leftover marinade. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes without stirring. You want one side to turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes until done. To finish, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and let it cook for one more minute. This step helps the flavors come together. Remove the skillet from heat and season with salt and pepper. Your spicy honey lime shrimp is now ready to serve. Enjoy it warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. For the full recipe, refer back to the beginning! To cook shrimp just right, avoid overcooking. Shrimp turns pink and opaque when done. Look for a firm texture. If it curls tightly, it may be overcooked. Using a meat thermometer helps ensure perfect shrimp. The ideal internal temperature is 120°F. This temperature keeps your shrimp juicy and tender. To spice things up, adjust the heat levels to your liking. If you enjoy more heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a little and add more if needed. Consider adding aromatics for extra flavor. Garlic and ginger bring warmth. You can also try adding cumin or smoked paprika for a new twist. Use your creativity to enhance flavors you love. {{image_4}} You can try different proteins for this dish. Chicken works well if you prefer it. Tofu is a great choice for a plant-based option, absorbing flavors nicely. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and follow the same cooking steps. For sweeteners, honey is fantastic, but maple syrup can add a nice twist. Agave syrup is another option to consider. Both alternatives will still give you that sweet touch without losing flavor. Want to switch up the citrus? You can use lemon or orange juice for a fresh taste. Both add a unique zing that pairs well with shrimp. Adjusting the spice level is easy too. If you want more heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes. For less spice, reduce the amount or leave it out. This way, you can make the dish just how you like it! For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To keep your Spicy Honey Lime Shrimp fresh, follow these tips. - Refrigerator Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Use glass or plastic containers that seal well. Store the shrimp in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they cool down before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. - Freezing Options: If you want to save shrimp for later, freezing is a great choice. Lay the shrimp flat in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents clumping and keeps shrimp fresh for up to three months. Reheating shrimp can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right. - Best Methods: The microwave is quick but can make shrimp rubbery. Instead, use a skillet for better results. Heat a little oil in the skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until warmed through. - Maintaining Texture: To avoid rubbery shrimp, don’t overheat them. Just warm until they are hot but still tender. Stir gently to keep them from sticking to the pan. Enjoy your shrimp like they were just cooked! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. You can tell shrimp is done by its color and texture. Cooked shrimp turns pink and becomes firm. They should look opaque, not translucent. The safe internal temperature for shrimp is 120°F (49°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results. Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Marinate the shrimp and store it in the fridge. This can last for up to 2 hours. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the marinated shrimp. Thaw in the fridge before cooking. Pair this shrimp with rice or a fresh salad. Here are some great options: - Steamed jasmine rice - Quinoa salad - Grilled vegetables - Avocado slices These sides balance the shrimp's spice and sweetness. You can also serve warm tortillas for a fun twist. Check the Full Recipe for more details! You learned how to make Spicy Honey Lime Shrimp with fresh ingredients and easy steps. We talked about the best shrimp, types of honey, and the importance of lime juice. I shared tips on marinating and cooking to get shrimp just right. Remember to check for doneness and how to store leftovers. You can also try new flavors by changing ingredients. Enjoy your dish, share it, and impress your friends. Simple cooking can lead to big smiles!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/32f525eb-631f-4155-a120-c5a025aaa712-768x768.webp)
