Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Blistered Tomatoes

Indulge your senses with a pasta dish that marries the sweet smokiness of roasted red peppers with the bright acidity of blistered tomatoes. This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched hills of Italy. As you twirl your fork through the velvety sauce, you’ll discover a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate. The vibrant hues of the dish are as captivating as its taste, making it a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this simple yet sophisticated recipe that promises to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How to Make Creamy Red Pepper Pasta

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients for this delectable dish. You’ll need rigatoni pasta, cashews, roasted red peppers, olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. According to Pinch of Yum, using high-quality ingredients like DeLallo pasta and olive oil can elevate the final result.

Create the Creamy Sauce

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the velvety red pepper sauce. Blend cashews, roasted red peppers, olive oil, nutritional yeast, water, and garlic until smooth and creamy. This combination creates a rich, savory base that coats the pasta perfectly.

Cook and Combine

While your pasta cooks according to package instructions, broil the cherry tomatoes until they blister. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and return it to the pot. Pour the creamy red pepper sauce over the hot pasta and stir to coat evenly. The heat from the pasta will help the sauce adhere and create a luscious texture.

Finish and Serve

Top your creamy red pepper pasta with the blistered tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness. Garnish with fresh chives and basil to add a pop of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful, and nutritious dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Creamy Red Pepper Pasta Recipe

The Pasta Base

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need 1 pound of rigatoni pasta as your base. Rigatoni’s ridged texture and tubular shape make it perfect for capturing the creamy sauce. For best results, opt for a high-quality pasta brand to ensure the perfect al dente texture.

The Vibrant Vegetables

The star ingredients that give this pasta its unique flavor profile are roasted red peppers and cherry tomatoes. You’ll need 1 large roasted red pepper (or about 1/2 cup of roasted red pepper strips) and 2-3 cups of fresh cherry tomatoes. These vegetables will provide a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity to your dish.

The Creamy Sauce Components

To achieve the luscious, creamy consistency, you’ll need:

• 1 1/4 cups of cashews

• 1 1/2 cups of water

• 1/4 cup of high-quality olive oil

• 1 clove of garlic

• 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt

• 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast (optional, but recommended for added depth)

These ingredients will be blended together to create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every ridge of your pasta.

The Finishing Touches

To elevate your dish, have some fresh chives and basil on hand for garnish. These herbs will add a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic finish to your creamy red pepper pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Red Pepper Pasta

Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need pasta, roasted red peppers, cream, onion, garlic, and various seasonings. For convenience, you can use jarred roasted red peppers, or roast your own for a more intense flavor.

Cook the Pasta and Start the Sauce

Cook your chosen pasta in salted water until al dente. While it’s cooking, sauté onions and garlic in a skillet with a pinch of red pepper flakes. This forms the aromatic base of your sauce.

Blend and Simmer the Sauce

Add roasted red peppers, cream, and cheese to the skillet. Blend this mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or transfer to a regular blender. Return the sauce to the skillet and simmer gently.

Combine and Serve

Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water. Add the pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Finish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for a delicious, creamy pasta experience that’s sure to impress.

Tips for Blistering Tomatoes to Top Creamy Red Pepper Pasta

Selecting the Right Tomatoes

When preparing blistered tomatoes for your creamy red pepper pasta, choose cherry or grape tomatoes for their sweet flavor and juicy texture. These smaller varieties are ideal for creating a quick, flavorful topping that complements the creamy pasta base. Their higher pectin content also helps create a more cohesive sauce when they burst.

Perfecting the Blistering Technique

To achieve perfectly blistered tomatoes, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tomatoes and let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes to allow the bottom to blister. Then, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper, continuing to cook for 2-3 more minutes while stirring occasionally. The goal is to have the tomatoes nicely blistered and beginning to burst, releasing their sweet juices.

Enhancing Flavor and Presentation

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or a touch of balsamic vinegar to the pan while blistering. Once the tomatoes are done, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh herbs like basil or chives for a aromatic finish. When serving, spoon the blistered tomatoes over your creamy red pepper pasta, allowing their vibrant colors and textures to create an appealing contrast that’s as visually striking as it is delicious.

More Delicious Creamy Pasta Recipes to Try

If you’ve enjoyed our Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Blistered Tomatoes, you’ll love these other indulgent pasta dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine

Indulge in the classic flavors of Italy with this rich and velvety fettuccine. Coated in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, freshly grated Parmesan, and aromatic garlic, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. For an extra touch of luxury, try adding sautéed mushrooms or crispy pancetta.

Roasted Butternut Squash Alfredo

For a seasonal twist on creamy pasta, this butternut squash Alfredo is a must-try. The natural sweetness of roasted squash blends beautifully with sage and nutmeg, creating a silky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Elevate the classic mac and cheese with the rich, smoky flavor of Gouda. This grown-up version of a childhood favorite combines al dente pasta shells with a velvety cheese sauce, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated. For added depth, consider mixing in some caramelized onions or crispy bacon bits.

Conclusion

As you savor the last bites of this creamy red pepper pasta, you’ll appreciate how a few simple ingredients can create such a satisfying meal. The sweet roasted peppers, tangy blistered tomatoes, and rich sauce combine for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s a testament to the delights of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. So the next time you’re craving pasta with a twist, reach for those red peppers and prepare to indulge in a truly memorable dining experience.