Creamy Red Pepper Sauce

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Additional Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps to Cook:

1. Roast the Red Peppers:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place the whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Roast the peppers for 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered.
   • Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl, covering it with plastic wrap or a lid. Allow the peppers to steam for 10-15 minutes.
   • Peel the skin off the peppers and discard the seeds and membranes.

2. Make the Creamy Red Pepper Sauce:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
   • Blend or process the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.

3. Simmer the Sauce:

   • Transfer the blended sauce to a saucepan and place it over medium heat.
   • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.

Cook’s Note:

• Roasting the red peppers is an essential step in this recipe, as it adds a depth of flavor and sweetness to the sauce. You can roast the peppers up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the sauce.
• If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of milk or broth to the blended sauce.
• This creamy red pepper sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as pasta, chicken, or roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a dip or spread.
• For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe Calories: 260 Total Fat: 22g Saturated Fat: 13g Cholesterol: 70mg Sodium: 470mg Total Carbohydrates: 8g Dietary Fiber: 2g Sugars: 4g Protein: 7g

This creamy red pepper sauce is a delightful and versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. The key to its rich and flavorful taste is the roasted red peppers, which lend a naturally sweet and smoky note to the sauce.

To begin, you’ll need to roast the red bell peppers. This can be done in the oven, on the stovetop, or even over an open flame. The important thing is to char the skin until it’s blistered and blackened, then allow the peppers to steam for 10-15 minutes. This makes the skin easy to peel off, revealing the sweet, tender flesh underneath.

Once the peppers are roasted and peeled, the rest of the sauce comes together quickly. In a blender or food processor, you’ll combine the roasted peppers with heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

The blended sauce is then gently simmered on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the consistency to thicken slightly. This step is important, as it helps to develop the sauce’s rich and velvety texture.

One of the great things about this creamy red pepper sauce is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or pan-seared salmon. It’s also delicious tossed with pasta, whether it’s a simple spaghetti or a more elaborate penne alla vodka.

For a heartier meal, try serving the sauce over roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or roasted cauliflower. The creamy texture and bold flavors of the sauce will complement the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the roasted veggies.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, the sauce can also be used as a dip or spread. Serve it alongside fresh-cut crudités, such as carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices, for a healthy and satisfying snack.

One of the best things about this creamy red pepper sauce is that it’s not only delicious but also nutritious. The main ingredient, red bell peppers, are an excellent source of vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants that can help support a healthy immune system. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese provide a creamy, satisfying texture, while the garlic and basil add depth of flavor.

Overall, this creamy red pepper sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple dish or create a more elaborate meal, this sauce is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and experience the delicious and healthy benefits for yourself?