Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta Crumbles is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with a luscious, creamy sauce and the salty tang of feta cheese. This pasta is both comforting and elegant, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests. The roasted red peppers give a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, while the feta adds a creamy, slightly tangy contrast.

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, easy to prepare, and packed with color and taste. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a rich pasta dish without relying on heavy cream or meat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The combination of roasted red peppers and feta creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.

It’s comforting, satisfying, and visually stunning, making it a dish that is both delicious and impressive.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it is full of flavor, easy to make, and suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The natural sweetness of roasted red peppers paired with the salty tang of feta creates a perfect balance, while the creamy sauce ensures every bite is indulgent.

It is a vegetarian-friendly pasta that is hearty enough to satisfy any craving.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~480 kcal
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian / Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
Add chopped roasted red peppers, vegetable broth (or pasta water), and smoked paprika to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée until smooth. Return sauce to skillet and stir in cream. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Sprinkle crumbled feta and chopped parsley over the pasta. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic 1 minute.
3. Add roasted red peppers, vegetable broth, and smoked paprika. Simmer 5 minutes. Purée until smooth.
4. Stir in cream and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce. Add pasta water as needed for consistency.
6. Top with crumbled feta and parsley. Serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta Crumbles hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality roasted red peppers for the best flavor.
• Adjust cream quantity to achieve desired richness.
• Purée the sauce thoroughly for a silky texture.
• Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
• Substitute feta with goat cheese for a creamier, tangier flavor.
• Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian option.
• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Best served fresh; sauce may separate when frozen.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Immersion blender or regular blender
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or tongs for tossing pasta

FAQ

Q: Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted jarred peppers?
A: Yes, roast fresh red peppers in the oven until charred, peel, and purée.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, use coconut cream or plant-based cream and omit feta or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare sauce and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, then reheat and toss with pasta.

Q: Can I use penne, fusilli, or spaghetti?
A: Yes, any pasta shape that holds sauce works well.

Q: Can I add protein?
A: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas pair well with this pasta.

Conclusion

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta Crumbles is a colorful, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the sweetness of roasted red peppers together with the tangy creaminess of feta. Quick to prepare yet elegant in presentation, it is perfect for weeknight dinners, vegetarian meals, or impressing guests. Its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and vibrant appearance make it a must-try pasta dish for any occasion.