Save A festive and vibrant pasta dish featuring a luscious roasted red pepper sauce, topped with dollops of creamy ricotta to resemble Santa hats. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cheerful winter meal.
A festive and vibrant pasta dish featuring a luscious roasted red pepper sauce, topped with dollops of creamy ricotta to resemble Santa hats makes holiday gatherings special and cheerful.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) penne or rigatoni
- Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: 2 large roasted red bell peppers (jarred or homemade, about 250 g), drained 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese ½ tsp smoked paprika ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toppings: 120 g (½ cup) ricotta cheese Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 120 ml (½ cup) pasta water.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 4 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add roasted red peppers to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4:
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5:
- Return the red pepper sauce to the skillet over low heat. Add drained pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Step 6:
- Divide pasta among plates. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of ricotta to resemble a Santa hat pom pom. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Save This recipe makes holiday gatherings special and brings family together to enjoy a festive meal.
Notes
Jarred roasted red peppers save time, but homemade adds a smoky depth
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon
Allergens
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan, ricotta) and wheat (pasta). Double-check cheese labels for rennet if vegetarian
Save This festive pasta dish is sure to brighten any holiday table and delight your family with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying bite that complements the creamy red pepper sauce.
- → Can I use homemade roasted red peppers?
Yes, homemade roasted red peppers add a smoky depth, but jarred peppers offer convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- → What is the purpose of adding pasta water to the sauce?
Reserved pasta water helps loosen the sauce and adds starch, making it silkier and better at coating the pasta evenly.
- → Are there alternatives to ricotta for the topping?
Small mozzarella balls can be used as a creamy, festive alternative to ricotta for the topping.
- → How can I add more greens to this dish?
Sautéed spinach or peas can be stirred into the sauce or tossed with the pasta for extra color and nutrition.