Go Back
Comfort food has an uncanny ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, often becoming a central part of shared meals and cherished memories. Among the myriad of comfort food options, pasta dishes stand out for their versatility and universal appeal. They possess a unique quality that brings people together around the dinner table, inviting laughter, conversation, and connection. One such dish that exemplifies this comforting essence is Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Pasta.

Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Pasta

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Pasta, a dish that beautifully blends vibrant ingredients with rich, creamy goodness. This delightful recipe highlights the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the freshness of spinach, creating not just a meal but a warm, nostalgic experience perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Learn how to make this easy, visually stunning pasta that’s packed with nutrition and flavor. Enjoy every moment around the dinner table as you share this satisfying dish with loved ones.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (fusilli or penne recommended)

2 large red bell peppers

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

5 oz (140g) fresh spinach leaves

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Roast the Red Peppers: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole red bell peppers on a lined baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are blistered and charred. Once roasted, remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. After cooling, peel off the charred skin, discard the stems and seeds, and chop the peppers into small, bite-sized pieces.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, stirring until fragrant.

        Incorporate the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring gently, for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted down.

          Create the Sauce: To the skillet, add the chopped roasted red peppers and pour in the heavy cream. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Bring it to a gentle simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the roasted red pepper and spinach sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir thoroughly until the pasta is well coated; if the sauce is too thick, gradually add more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

              Season to Taste: Season the pasta with red pepper flakes (if using) and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

                Serve: Plate the pasta in bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Roasted Red Pepper & Spinach Pasta with loved ones!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4