Name: High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes; 12 oz roasted red peppers, drained; 1/2 cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup unsweetened milk (plant-based or dairy); 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

If you’re searching for a vibrant and satisfying dish, look no further than the High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta. This delightful recipe isn’t just packed with flavor; it’s also a wonderful option for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy yet comforting meal. The creamy sauce, made from roasted red peppers, tangy cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, and aromatic garlic, brings together a rich texture that’s sure to please both your palate and your protein cravings.

Preparing a meal that balances nutrition with taste can sometimes seem daunting, but this recipe makes it easy. Using simple pantry staples, you can throw together a meal that’s not only quick to make but also incredibly delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be made in just 25 minutes, serving as an ideal solution for those nights when you’re craving comfort food but want to keep it on the healthier side. The roasted red peppers lend a smoky, sweet essence to the dish, while the protein additions help keep you full longer.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

Nutritious: With the addition of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, this recipe is high in protein, making it a great option for post-workout meals.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, you can whip this up even on the busiest of nights.
Versatile: This dish can easily be adapted with different vegetables, proteins, or pasta types to suit your preferences.
Comfort Food: The creamy texture and rich flavors provide the ultimate comfort food experience without the guilt.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To kick off your cooking journey, ensure your kitchen is well-prepared. Start by gathering all the necessary tools. You will need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a skillet for sautéing, and a high-powered blender to create that luscious creamy sauce. Keep measuring cups and spoons at hand for accurate ingredient portions.

Before you heat up your stovetop, get organized. Chop your garlic, measure out your spices, and have your roasted red peppers ready to go. Having everything prepped will streamline the cooking process and enhance your experience, letting you focus on creating the delicious dish without distractions.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
12 oz roasted red peppers, drained
1/2 cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup unsweetened milk (plant-based or dairy)
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add in your penne pasta. Cooking the pasta until al dente is crucial to ensure it maintains a bit of a bite. Once cooked, reserve half a cup of pasta water as it will help adjust the sauce later on. Drain the pasta and set it aside temporarily while you work on the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart an unpleasant bitter taste to your dish.

Step 3: Blend the Sauce

In a high-speed blender, combine the sautéed garlic and any leftover oil, drained roasted red peppers, your choice of protein (either cottage cheese or Greek yogurt), unsweetened milk, parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth. This velvety sauce is what makes this pasta dish rich and creamy without the extra calories.

Step 4: Combine and Heat

Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and heat over medium-low for about 2-3 minutes, continually stirring to prevent sticking. If at any point your sauce seems too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water to find your desired consistency. Take your time here; heating the sauce allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Finally, add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute so that it absorbs those fantastic flavors. This step is essential for melding all the components together into a harmonious dish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Your High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is now complete! To serve, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, along with additional cheese or nutritional yeast if desired. Enjoy it hot, and don’t forget to savor each creamy bite!

Variations

Protein: Swap cottage cheese with ricotta or use vegan protein options for a dairy-free version.
Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavors.
Spices: Add in some Italian herbs like oregano or thyme for a twist on those classic flavors.

Cooking Notes

For a gluten-free version, substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives.
Experiment with other cheeses, such as feta or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up any leftover sauce.

Tips

Make sure your blender is powerful enough to achieve a silky smooth sauce for the best texture.
Don’t skip reserving the pasta water; it’s essential for achieving the right consistency for your sauce.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350
Protein: 21g
Sodium: 520mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! By substituting the cottage cheese and parmesan with vegan alternatives, you can easily make this a dairy-free dish.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.

What makes this dish high in protein?

The use of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt contributes to the increase in protein content, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Conclusion

The High Protein Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire, offering a balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Its creamy texture, combined with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, creates a party of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply trying to whip up a quick dinner for yourself, this dish provides a satisfying solution that’s both healthy and comforting. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, as this pasta is truly adaptable to suit your preferences. Enjoy this recipe, share your thoughts in the comments, and invite others to try this delicious dish!