Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious pasta dish, jarred red pepper pasta is an excellent option. This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted red peppers with garlic, olive oil, and some aromatic herbs, resulting in a vibrant sauce that’s both easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or fancy enough for dinner guests, this dish is versatile and full of flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pasta of choice – 400g
Jarred red peppers – 1 jar (about 285g)
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Fresh basil – a handful, roughly chopped
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Parmesan cheese – for serving, optional
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This jarred red pepper pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home with minimal effort. Whether you prefer it with a sprinkle of cheese or a burst of fresh herbs, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Roast the Peppers
While the pasta is cooking, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place jarred red peppers on a baking tray and roast for about 10 minutes to enhance their flavors.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a blender or food processor, add the roasted red peppers along with some olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the red pepper sauce. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Divide the pasta into servings. Top with grated cheese and fresh basil for added flavor. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil.
Notes
Note 1: Customize Your Dish
Feel free to add cooked vegetables, olives, or protein of your choice to enhance the dish further.
Note 2: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Note 3: Cheese Options
Parmesan cheese works well, but you can also try feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
Note 4: Spice It Up
If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Note 5: Vegan Variation
To make this dish vegan, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Cook techniques
Roasting Peppers
Roast red peppers until the skin is charred and blistered, allowing their natural sweetness and flavor to intensify.
Blending
Combine the roasted peppers with other ingredients to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Use a high-speed blender for the best results.
Simmering
Allow the blended pepper sauce to simmer gently, letting the flavors meld together perfectly.
Cooking Pasta
Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite for the best texture.
Mixing Sauce and Pasta
Toss the cooked pasta with the pepper sauce while it’s still hot, ensuring every strand is well-coated.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, the sauce can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the jarred red pepper pasta recipe is completely vegan if you omit any cheese or add vegan alternatives.
What other ingredients can I add to the sauce?
Feel free to add ingredients like garlic, onions, or herbs to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Conclusion
This jarred red pepper pasta recipe is a delightful and versatile dish that showcases the rich flavors of roasted red peppers combined with wholesome pasta. It’s simple to prepare and provides a robust base that can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether served as a quick weeknight meal or dressed up for a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Roasted Vegetable Pasta
Combine your jarred red pepper pasta with a selection of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes for a colorful and nutrient-rich dish.
Creamy Red Pepper Pasta
Add a splash of cream or a vegan alternative to the red pepper sauce for a creamy texture that elevates the dish. This variation is especially satisfying during colder months.
Pasta Salad with Red Peppers
Use the jarred red pepper sauce as a dressing for a chilled pasta salad. Toss in some fresh herbs, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Red Pepper and Spinach Fettuccine
Mix in sautéed spinach for a pop of color and added nutrients. The pairing of spinach and red pepper creates a beautiful flavor combination.
Spicy Red Pepper Shrimp Pasta
Introduce shrimp and a hint of chili flakes to your red pepper pasta for a spicy seafood interpretation that is elegant and satisfying.
Vegetarian Red Pepper Lasagna
Layer your red pepper sauce with sheets of pasta, ricotta cheese, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian lasagna that will please everyone at the table.
One-Pot Red Pepper Pasta
For a simplified cooking method, prepare a one-pot version by adding uncooked pasta directly to the jarred red pepper sauce along with broth or water, allowing everything to cook together for easy cleanup.