Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Pasta tossed in a creamy roasted red pepper sauce.

Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

This Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a creamy, flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes. The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, combined with garlic, onions, and a touch of cream or cashews (for a vegan version), creates a rich and velvety sauce. It’s a lighter alternative to tomato-based pasta and pairs well with parmesan, fresh basil, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra depth.

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

• 2 large red bell peppers
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup vegetable broth (or pasta water)
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or pasta of choice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Roast the Red Peppers:
   • Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
   • Place whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
   • Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred.
   • Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 more minute.
   • In a blender, combine roasted red peppers, sautéed onion mixture, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
   • Pour the sauce back into the pan, stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk), and simmer for 5 minutes. Add Parmesan if using.
3. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
4. Toss & Serve:
   • Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier texture.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm!

Enjoy this creamy, smoky, and flavorful pasta dish!

Tips for the Best Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

• Roast the Peppers for Extra Flavor – Charring the peppers in the oven, on the stove, or over a grill enhances their sweetness.
• Blend Until Silky Smooth – A blender or food processor ensures a creamy, velvety sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic & Onions – Sautéing them before blending deepens the flavor.
• Adjust the Creaminess – Use heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or cashews blended with broth for a dairy-free alternative.
• Pair with the Right Pasta – Spaghetti works great, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni also hold the sauce well.

Enjoy your meal!