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This smoked garlic pasta with roasted peppers transforms ordinary ingredients into a luxurious dinner that's ready in just 15 minutes. The velvety sauce coats each strand of pasta with a perfect balance of smoky garlic, sweet roasted peppers, and herbaceous notes that will make you think you're dining at your favorite Italian restaurant.
The first time I made this pasta, I was skeptical about how something so simple could taste so complex. After one bite, it became an instant favorite in our house, especially on those evenings when cooking feels like a chore but takeout isn't an option.
Ingredients
- Smoked garlic cloves: Provide a distinctive smoky depth that regular garlic simply cannot match
- Roasted red peppers: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color
- Vegan single cream: Creates silky richness without dairy
- Italian herbs: Add classic Mediterranean flavor notes
- Nutritional yeast: Offers a subtle cheesy flavor that enhances the sauce
- Fresh basil: Brightens the entire dish with its aromatic finish
- Pasta of choice: Allows you to customize based on preference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually about 7 minutes. This is the perfect time to prepare your sauce.
- Blend the Sauce Components:
- Add roasted peppers, oil, dried herbs, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, tomato puree, and smoked garlic cloves to a blender. Pulse until smooth. If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water to achieve a pourable consistency. The sauce should be silky but not watery.
- Heat and Develop Flavors:
- Transfer the blended sauce to a large pan over medium heat. Stir continuously as it comes to a simmer to prevent burning. This cooking process marries the flavors together and mellows the garlic. Once simmering, add approximately 180ml of starchy pasta water, which helps bind the sauce.
- Incorporate Cream and Pasta:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the vegan cream, being careful not to let it boil. Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the sauce, tossing gently until every piece is thoroughly coated. The pasta will continue absorbing flavors as you mix.
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The first time I served this to my pasta loving Italian friend, he asked for the recipe before even finishing his bowl. What surprised him most was how the smoked garlic transformed what could have been an ordinary dish into something memorably complex.
Storage Tips
This pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavor actually develops overnight, making it possibly even more delicious the next day. When reheating, add a splash of water or plant milk to refresh the sauce as it will thicken when chilled. Stir gently over low heat until just warm to maintain the creamy texture.
Substitution Guide
No smoked garlic? Use regular garlic cloves and add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika for a similar depth. Jarred roasted peppers work perfectly, but if using fresh peppers, roast them yourself by charring under the broiler until blackened, then placing in a covered bowl to steam before peeling away the skins. For a nut free cream alternative, coconut cream provides luscious richness, though it adds a subtle coconut undertone that works surprisingly well with the other flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta shines as a main course paired with a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms directly to the pasta. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds welcome crunch and nuttiness. If serving to guests, present it family style in a large, shallow bowl garnished generously with torn basil leaves and a drizzle of your best olive oil.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular garlic instead of smoked garlic?
Yes, you can substitute smoked garlic with regular garlic. Just ensure to cook it briefly in the pan to avoid an overpowering raw flavor.
- → What type of roasted peppers should I use?
You can use store-bought jarred roasted peppers or roast fresh red peppers yourself for this recipe. Both work well.
- → Which type of pasta works best?
Any pasta shape works great for this dish. Macaroni, penne, or spaghetti are all good options.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → What can I substitute for vegan cream?
If you don't have vegan cream, you can use unsweetened plant-based milk or coconut cream as an alternative. Adjust the thickness by adding pasta water if needed.