Silky Red Pepper Sun: Amazing 15-Min Creamy Pasta

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Silky Red Pepper Sun

Silky Red Pepper Sun has completely changed my weeknight dinners! I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy holiday season, desperate for something delicious yet incredibly easy. The aroma alone, a blend of sweet roasted peppers and warm spices, filled my kitchen and instantly brought a sense of calm. This creamy, dreamy pasta dish, with its vibrant color and rich flavor, feels so gourmet but is surprisingly simple to whip up. It’s become my go-to when I want a comforting and impressive meal without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!

What is Silky Red Pepper Sun?

So, what exactly is this magical Silky Red Pepper Sun dish? At its heart, it’s a vibrant, incredibly creamy pasta sauce that gets its signature texture and flavor from roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes. My first encounter with this Silky Red Pepper Sun what is it question left me intrigued, and the taste confirmed it’s pure comfort in a bowl. The base is a smooth, blended mixture of peppers, nuts, herbs, and spices, creating an almost velvety consistency. This isn’t just any pasta sauce; it’s a rich, flavorful experience that coats every strand of pasta beautifully.

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Why You’ll Love This Silky Red Pepper Sun Recipe

You’re going to adore this dish for so many reasons! It’s a winner for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

  • Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet roasted peppers, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of spice is simply divine.
  • Super Speedy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, this Silky Red Pepper Sun easy recipe gets dinner on the table fast.
  • Surprisingly Healthy: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying meal you can feel good about.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients to create a gourmet-tasting meal.
  • Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the rich, Silky Red Pepper Sun creamy sauce and tender pasta.
  • Versatile: Perfect as a main course, a side dish, or even a stunning appetizer.

Silky Red Pepper Sun Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this amazing Silky Red Pepper Sun. These components come together beautifully to create that signature creamy texture and vibrant flavor. This Silky Red Pepper Sun ingredients list ensures you have everything for a delicious meal, and it’s wonderfully Silky Red Pepper Sun vegetarian!

  • 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained (reserve 1 whole pepper) – the star for sweetness and color
  • ⅓ cup toasted nuts/seeds (walnuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.) – adds body and a nutty depth to the sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste – for concentrated tomato flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed – essential for aromatic depth
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, oregano, or parsley – bright, fresh herbaceous notes
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes) – creates that silky smooth finish
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider or champagne vinegar – a touch of acidity to balance the richness
  • 2 teaspoons honey – just a hint of sweetness
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika – for warmth and a hint of smokiness
  • ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper – brings a gentle kick of heat
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter – adds richness and helps emulsify the sauce
  • 1 pound short cut pasta – your favorite shape will work
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste – season as you go!
  • ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, sliced – for intense, chewy tomato flavor
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds salty, umami richness
  • 1 cup fresh basil or mixed Italian herbs, chopped – for a final burst of freshness
  • Chili flakes (optional) – for extra heat
  • Burrata cheese balls, at room temperature – the ultimate creamy topping

How to Make Silky Red Pepper Sun

Let’s dive into making this incredible Silky Red Pepper Sun! These Silky Red Pepper Sun cooking instructions will guide you through creating a dish that’s both impressive and surprisingly simple. You’ll soon see why this Silky Red Pepper Sun homemade dish is a favorite.

  1. Step 1: First, let’s get that sauce blended. In your blender or food processor, combine the drained roasted red peppers (remember to reserve one whole pepper for later!), your toasted nuts or seeds, tomato paste, smashed garlic cloves, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, extra-virgin olive oil, vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a good pinch of salt. Blend this mixture until it’s wonderfully smooth, which usually takes about 1 minute. You’re looking for a velvety consistency.
  2. Step 2: Now for the magic! In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Pour in your blended red pepper sauce and 3 1/2 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil. Carefully add your pound of short cut pasta, season with more salt to your liking, and cook, stirring often. This usually takes between 8 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly al dente. It’s important not to drain the pasta water; if it looks like it’s drying out, just add a little more water to ensure the pasta cooks fully.
  3. Step 3: We’re almost there! Slice the reserved roasted red pepper into thin strips. Gently stir these strips into the pot of cooked pasta along with the sliced oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, the grated Parmesan cheese, and your chopped fresh herbs. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the rich, luscious sauce. You want it to look incredibly creamy and inviting.
  4. Step 4: Time to serve! Arrange the room-temperature burrata cheese balls in a shallow serving bowl. Carefully spoon the hot pasta and sauce mixture directly over the burrata. Gently toss everything together, allowing the warm pasta to melt the creamy burrata into the sauce, creating an even more decadent texture. Garnish with extra fresh Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and chili flakes if you like a bit more heat. Enjoy your amazing Silky Red Pepper Sun creation!

Silky Red Pepper Sun: Amazing 15-Min Creamy Pasta - Silky Red Pepper Sun - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Silky Red Pepper Sun

Want to elevate your Silky Red Pepper Sun game? These little tricks will make all the difference:

  • Always use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor and to help create that signature creamy sauce.
  • Don’t be afraid to toast your nuts or seeds! It really brings out their flavor and adds a lovely depth to the sauce.
  • Reserve some of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s liquid gold for loosening the sauce if it gets too thick.

What’s the secret to perfect Silky Red Pepper Sun?

The real secret to the Silky Red Pepper Sun best recipe is in the blending and the burrata! Ensuring your sauce is super smooth before cooking the pasta, and then letting that creamy burrata melt into the hot dish, creates an unparalleled silky texture. For more tips on achieving perfect pasta dishes, check out this guide.

Can I make Silky Red Pepper Sun ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the red pepper sauce base up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also prep your other ingredients. Just cook the pasta and assemble when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste. Learn more about meal prepping to save time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Silky Red Pepper Sun?

A common pitfall is a sauce that’s too thick; always have extra water or pasta water handy to adjust consistency. Also, ensure your burrata is at room temperature so it melts beautifully into the hot pasta, rather than just cooling it down. Understanding common cooking mistakes can help prevent these issues.

Best Ways to Serve Your Silky Red Pepper Sun

This versatile Silky Red Pepper Sun dish is a star on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple additions. For a complete meal, consider serving it as a main course. It’s absolutely fantastic as this incredible Silky Red Pepper Sun for pasta, where the creamy sauce coats every strand. If you’re looking for a lighter option or an appetizer, it’s wonderful served warm with crusty bread for dipping. The rich sauce is perfect for soaking up every last delicious bite. You could also serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For more pasta serving ideas, explore this resource.

Silky Red Pepper Sun Variations

This Silky Red Pepper Sun is so adaptable, you can tweak it to fit any mood or dietary need! These Silky Red Pepper Sun variations are simple ways to make it your own.

  • Vegan Delight: For a fully vegan dish, simply swap the butter for vegan butter or a tablespoon of olive oil, and use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan instead of dairy cheese. The burrata can be omitted or replaced with a dollop of thick, plain vegan yogurt.
  • Extra Spicy Kick: If you crave more heat, boost the cayenne pepper in the sauce or add an extra pinch of chili flakes. You could even stir in some chopped jalapeños with the sun-dried tomatoes for an even more intensely Silky Red Pepper Sun spicy experience.
  • Creamy Cashew Base: For an alternative creamy texture, soak about ½ cup of raw cashews in hot water for 30 minutes, then blend them into the red pepper sauce mixture instead of nuts. This creates a wonderfully rich, dairy-free creaminess.
  • Sheet Pan Dinner: Transform this into a one-pan wonder! Toss your pasta with the sauce and sun-dried tomatoes, then spread it on a baking sheet with the burrata. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition Facts for Silky Red Pepper Sun

Let’s look at the nutritional breakdown for this delicious Silky Red Pepper Sun dish. Keep in mind these are approximate values per serving, as individual ingredients can vary. For more information on general nutritional guidelines, consult this page.

  • Calories: 520
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Protein: 19g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Silky Red Pepper Sun

One of the best things about making this Silky Red Pepper Sun homemade is how well it stores! Once your delicious pasta has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. This means you can enjoy this creamy pasta dish multiple times without all the effort. If you want to make a big batch to have on hand for even longer, you can definitely freeze portions. Wrap individual servings well and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thawing overnight in the fridge is best before reheating. For tips on food storage, see this guide.

To reheat, you have a few options. For portions from the fridge, you can gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring halfway. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw completely in the refrigerator first, then follow the stovetop or microwave methods. Enjoying your Silky Red Pepper Sun leftovers is just as satisfying!

Frequently Asked Questions About Silky Red Pepper Sun

Can I make Silky Red Pepper Sun vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Silky Red Pepper Sun how to make a vegan delight, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or a touch of olive oil. For the creamy topping, you can omit the burrata or use a thick, unsweetened vegan yogurt or a cashew cream. This ensures you get all the wonderful flavors without any animal products.

What are the best ways to serve Silky Red Pepper Sun as an appetizer?

This dish is fantastic as a Silky Red Pepper Sun dip! Serve it warm in a small, oven-safe dish with plenty of crusty bread or pita points for dipping. You can also spoon smaller portions into individual ramekins and top with a bit of extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for elegant, single-serving appetizers. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

How long does the Silky Red Pepper Sun sauce last if made ahead?

The blended red pepper sauce base for your Silky Red Pepper Sun can be made up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly on cooking day super quick, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal even faster. Just reheat the sauce gently before adding the pasta.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I control the heat?

The recipe includes cayenne pepper for a gentle warmth, but it’s not overly spicy. You can easily control the heat level. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. If you prefer it hotter, feel free to add more cayenne, extra chili flakes, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while blending for an extra kick.

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Silky Red Pepper Sun

Silky Red Pepper Sun: Amazing 15-Min Creamy Pasta


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  • Author: hanan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Create a delightfully silky red pepper and sun-dried tomato pasta dish topped with a creamy burrata melt. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party.


Ingredients

  • 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained (reserve 1 whole pepper)
  • ⅓ cup toasted nuts/seeds (walnuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, oregano, or parsley
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil (or oil from sun-dried tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider or champagne vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh basil or mixed Italian herbs, chopped
  • Chili flakes (optional)
  • Burrata cheese balls, at room temperature

Instructions

  1. Make the Red Pepper Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers (reserving 1 pepper for later), toasted nuts, tomato paste, garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a generous pinch of salt. Blend until smooth, about 1 minute.
  2. Cook the Pasta in the Sauce: In a large pot, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the red pepper sauce and 3 1/2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the pasta, season with salt, and cook, stirring often, for 8-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Do not drain the pasta water—add more water if necessary to ensure the pasta cooks fully.
  3. Finish the Pasta: Slice the reserved roasted red pepper and stir it into the cooked pasta along with the sun-dried tomatoes, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh herbs. Toss the pasta until it’s very creamy.
  4. Serve with Burrata: Arrange the burrata balls in a serving bowl. Pour the hot pasta and sauce over the burrata and gently toss, allowing the burrata to melt into the pasta. Serve topped with additional fresh Parmesan, herbs, and chili flakes if desired. Enjoy your silky red pepper pasta!

Notes

  • For best results, use quality burrata cheese.
  • Toasting nuts or seeds deepens their flavor.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper and chili flakes to your spice preference.
  • Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Feel free to substitute herbs or nuts for variation.
  • The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximate)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 19g
  • Cholesterol: N/A

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