Origin of the Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta recipe.
Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a vibrant and innovate dish that combines together the Mediterranean cuisine with modern plant-based cooking. The roasted red peppers have long been a staple in Mediterranean kitchen known with their sweet and smoky flavor. This dish reimagines traditional pasta recipes by replacing heavy cream sauces with vegan-friendly alternative made primarily with roasted red peppers.
The Mediterranean influence can be seen clearly with the use of fresh ingredients like garlic, olive oil and basil all of which are the absolute cornerstones of the region’s culinary heritage. This recipe not only honors the tradition of using roasted vegetables in Italian cuisine, but also embraces the growing trend towards plant-based eating. This recipe is a perfect example of how traditional flavors can be adapted for modern diets.
Why the recipe works?
The Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta recipe works wonders for a few key reasons. First, the roasted red peppers provide a rich, creamy base for the sauce without the need for dairy products to be added. When blended, they create a smooth, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. The all natural sweetness of the roasted red peppers is balanced by the savory notes of sautéed garlic and shallot, while a splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth and a hint of acidity.
Often, the use of nutritional yeast serves as a replacement to the Parmesan cheese to achieve that umami flavor, giving the sauce a cheesy undertone that vegans and non-vegans will appreciate. The combination of these ingredients results in a sauce that is both flavorful and nourishing. The vibrant red color of the roasted red peppers makes the sauce visually appealing, inviting you to dig in with anticipation.
Why the Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is absolutely fantastic?
It’s a fantastic dish celebrated for its flavor, health and simplicity. Firstly, it’s incredibly delicious and the roasting process intensifies the peppers’ natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth that makes the sauce simply amazing. It’s also an absolute feast for the eyes with its bright, cheerful color.
Health-wise the vegan roasted red pepper pasta is a winner. It is packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the red peppers, garlic and tomatoes, making it nutritious and delicious. The absence of dairy and the inclusion of whole, plant-based ingredients mean it’s lower in calories and saturated fats. Having in mind all of that, compared to traditional cream-based pasta dishes its an absolute health winner.
Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Description
The Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a delightful, plant-based magic in a dish! It combines the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the rich, creamy texture of a dairy-free sauce. This dish is not only packed with flavor, but also loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Roasting the red peppers
Heat the oven to 260 C degrees (500 F) and roast the red peppers on a baking sheet until charred - about 30 minutes. Cover in foil for 10 minutes to steam, then peel the charred skin, seeds and stems.
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Pasta
Cook the pasta according to its package instructions, drain and toss a touch of olive oil then cover with a towel and set aside.
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Sauce prep
Bring a large skillet over medium heat and sauté both shallot and garlic in olive oil until golden brown color (and soft) - should take about 4-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and stir. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Sauce prep 2
Transfer the sautéed shallot and garlic to a blender together with the roasted peppers, almond milk, red pepper flakes(optional), nutritional yeast and cornstarch(or other thickener by choice). Season with desired amounts of salt and pepper.
Blend until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasonings as preferred. You want the flavor to be pretty robust and strong - be generous with the seasonings.
Once blended, place the sauce back in the skillet over medium heat to thicken. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and continue simmering.
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Pasta magic
Once the sauce is thickened to desired consistency, add the pasta. However, before tossing add a touch (little bit) more of olive oil, salt and pepper to the pasta for added flavor. Then continue tossing to fully coat the pasta.
Serve generously with vegan parmesan, red pepper flakes and freshly chopped parsley or basil.
And the most important step - Enjoy! :)
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 484kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Saturated Fat 2.3g12%
- Sodium 365mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 73g25%
- Sugars 3g
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.