Roasted Red Pepper Feta Pasta Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 2 large red bell peppers
- 4 ounces feta cheese, block or crumbled
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and halve the red bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. Place pepper halves, skin side up, on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are blackened and blistered.
5. Remove from oven and immediately transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let steam for 10 minutes.
6. While peppers are roasting, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
7. Peel the skin off the roasted peppers. Discard the skins.
8. In a skillet (oven-safe is ideal, but any large skillet will work), combine the roasted peppers, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
9. Mash the feta and peppers together with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
12. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
13. If using an oven-safe skillet, you can optionally bake the pasta at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to further melt the feta and meld the flavors.
14. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving.
15. Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Magic of Roasted Red Peppers
### Unlocking Sweetness Through Roasting
Roasting red peppers is the key to this dish. The process transforms their flavor. It intensifies their natural sweetness. Roasting also softens the peppers. This makes them easier to blend into a creamy, flavorful sauce.
The charred skin adds a subtle smoky note. Don’t skip the steaming step! It makes peeling the skins a breeze.
### Choosing the Right Peppers
Opt for large, firm red bell peppers. Avoid peppers with blemishes or soft spots. The size ensures you have enough pulp for the sauce. A good pepper will be heavy for its size. This indicates high water content and sweetness.
### Beyond the Skillet: Other Uses for Roasted Red Peppers
Roasted red peppers are incredibly versatile. Add them to sandwiches and wraps. Incorporate them into salads. Blend them into dips and spreads. They’re also delicious in omelets and frittatas. You can even pickle them for long-term storage.
The Feta Factor
### Selecting the Perfect Feta
Use a block of feta cheese packed in brine. This type of feta has a superior flavor and texture. Avoid pre-crumbled feta. It often contains cellulose. This prevents proper melting.
Greek feta is generally considered the best. Look for feta made with sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk.
### Feta’s Tangy Charm
Feta’s salty, tangy flavor complements the sweetness of the roasted peppers. The cheese melts beautifully into the pasta. It creates a creamy, satisfying sauce. The slight sharpness balances the richness of the dish.
### Feta Alternatives (If You Must!)
If you’re not a fan of feta, there are alternatives. Goat cheese offers a similar tang. Ricotta salata provides a salty, crumbly texture. Cream cheese can also be used, but the flavor profile will be significantly different. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
Pasta Perfection
### Choosing the Right Shape
Penne and rotini are excellent choices for this recipe. Their ridges and curves hold the sauce well. Other good options include farfalle (bowties) and fusilli (spirals). Avoid long, thin pastas like spaghetti. They don’t grab the sauce as effectively.
### Cooking Pasta Al Dente
Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian. The pasta should be firm but not hard. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the skillet.
Remember to reserve pasta water! The starchy water helps to create a smooth, emulsified sauce.
### Gluten-Free Options
This recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice pasta, quinoa pasta, and lentil pasta are all great options. Be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to package directions.
Skillet Sensations: One-Pan Cooking
### Why a Skillet?
A skillet makes this recipe a breeze. It simplifies the cooking process. The skillet allows you to roast the peppers, prepare the sauce, and combine everything in one pan. This minimizes cleanup.
An oven-safe skillet is ideal. It allows you to optionally bake the pasta for added flavor.
### Skillet Types: Choosing the Right One
Cast iron skillets provide even heat distribution. This is excellent for roasting peppers and baking the pasta. Stainless steel skillets are another good option. They are durable and easy to clean.
Avoid using non-stick skillets at high temperatures. The coating can break down and release harmful chemicals.
### Adapting to Your Kitchen Equipment
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, don’t worry. You can still make this recipe. Simply transfer the pasta and sauce to a baking dish before baking. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Variations and Customizations
### Adding Protein
Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the skillet for extra protein. Vegetarian options include chickpeas, white beans, or tofu.
### Spice It Up!
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for even more heat.
### Vegetable Medley
Add other roasted vegetables to the mix. Zucchini, eggplant, and onions are all delicious additions.
### Fresh Herbs
Experiment with different fresh herbs. Parsley, thyme, and rosemary all complement the flavors of this dish.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted red pepper and feta sauce ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh before combining with the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended. The pasta and feta cheese may change texture upon thawing.
How do I reheat the pasta skillet?
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil in place of 1/4 cup of fresh basil.
