This creamy roasted red pepper pasta is rich, comforting, and bursting with vibrant flavors. The smooth, silky sauce made from roasted peppers and coconut milk coats every piece of pasta perfectly, creating a deliciously satisfying dish.
Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish comes together in just 45 minutes and can be easily customized. Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition. For those who enjoy extra protein, tofu, tempeh, or vegan sausage would make fantastic additions.
Full Recipe:
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered. Remove from the oven, place the peppers in a bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. Peel the skins off, remove the seeds, and set the peppers aside.
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
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Add the roasted red peppers, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the skillet. Use an immersion blender to blend everything into a smooth sauce. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
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Add the pasta to the skillet, toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to thin it out. Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
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Serve the pasta with fresh basil on top.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Whether you’re looking for a new family dinner idea, meal prep inspiration, or a dish that will impress your guests at a dinner party, Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta ticks all the boxes. It’s quick to make, has a beautiful creamy texture, and can be easily customized. You can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition. For those who enjoy extra protein, tofu, tempeh, or vegan sausage would make fantastic additions.
The ingredients are simple, and many of them are pantry staples, making it an accessible recipe for most households. Plus, the method requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for those who want a satisfying meal with little effort.
The Health Benefits of Red Pepper Pasta
This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also offers several health benefits. Red bell peppers are loaded with essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and reduce inflammation. Coconut milk, which serves as the base for the creamy sauce, is rich in healthy fats that support brain function and heart health.
By opting for gluten-free pasta, this dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It’s also vegan, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle. The absence of dairy, added preservatives, and animal products makes this pasta a wholesome meal that supports overall wellness without compromising on flavor.
How to Customize Your Red Pepper Pasta
One of the greatest things about Red Pepper Pasta is that you can easily adjust it to suit your personal preferences. You can swap out the pasta for gluten-free options such as zucchini noodles, quinoa pasta, or brown rice pasta. Add in some of your favorite veggies, like mushrooms, peas, or roasted cherry tomatoes, to bring even more flavor and texture to the dish.
For a protein boost, consider adding vegan protein sources like tempeh, chickpeas, or lentils. If you prefer a little extra spice, you can include red pepper flakes or fresh chili to kick up the heat. The versatility of this dish makes it an ideal base for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Why Roasting the Peppers Makes a Difference
Roasting the peppers is an essential step in creating this dish’s signature flavor. By roasting the peppers, their natural sugars caramelize, which brings out a deeper, richer sweetness. The charring process also imparts a slight smokiness, making the sauce more complex and full of depth. The roasted peppers are then blended into a silky smooth sauce, ensuring that every bite of pasta is coated with flavor.
This roasting technique transforms the peppers into a luxurious sauce base, elevating the dish to a whole new level. While you could make a quick pepper sauce without roasting the peppers, this extra step truly makes the dish special, adding a homemade touch that will impress anyone who tries it.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Dish for Plant-Based Food Lovers
Creamy Red Pepper Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that delivers bold, satisfying flavors with minimal effort. The combination of roasted red peppers, coconut milk, and pasta creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its vegan, gluten-free ingredients, it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a canvas for creativity. Feel free to add extra vegetables, proteins, or spices to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a group, this pasta will become a favorite go-to dish that’s both nutritious and full of flavor. So why not try this creamy, roasted red pepper pasta tonight? It’s a simple yet unforgettable meal that’s sure to satisfy.