Description
Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs is a rich, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with a smooth, creamy sauce. The pasta is tossed in a velvety sauce made from puréed roasted red peppers, garlic, and a touch of cream, creating a luxurious coating on every strand. Topped with fresh, soft burrata cheese, the dish becomes extra indulgent as the creamy cheese melts into the sauce, adding a decadent richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley brings a burst of freshness that perfectly balances the dish’s creamy and savory elements. This pasta is the perfect combination of comfort and elegance, ideal for a cozy meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy and delicious pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 3 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled (or use jarred roasted red peppers)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 large balls of burrata cheese
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Ingredient Highlights
- Red Bell Peppers: Roasting the peppers enhances their sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the sauce, making it the perfect base for this creamy pasta.
- Burrata Cheese: Burrata is a rich and creamy cheese that adds a luxurious touch to this dish. Its delicate, milky interior makes it a fantastic complement to the pasta and sauce.
- Cream and Vegetable Broth: The combination of cream and vegetable broth creates a luscious, silky texture for the sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy sauce, and their vibrant color adds a beautiful touch to the dish.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Creamy Red Pepper Pasta with Burrata & Herbs:
Roast the Red Peppers (if using fresh):
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the red bell peppers in half and remove the stems and seeds. Place them on a baking sheet, skin side up.
- Roast the Peppers: Roast the peppers in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered. Once done, remove from the oven and place the peppers in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap to let them steam for 10 minutes.
- Peel the Skins: After steaming, peel the skins off the peppers. You should be left with soft, flavorful roasted red pepper flesh.
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Make the Red Pepper Cream Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic: In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add Roasted Red Peppers: Add the roasted red peppers to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Blend the Sauce: Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the peppers and garlic until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a slightly chunkier sauce, blend for less time.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Add the smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for a minute or two, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors.
- Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice for a subtle tang that balances the richness of the sauce.
Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the Pasta: Divide the pasta among serving plates, and then top with a ball of burrata cheese. Gently break the burrata open to let the creamy center spill out over the pasta.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using) for an added layer of flavor and color. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 15g