Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

This Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that's packed with flavor. The creamy pesto sauce is made with jarred pesto, roasted red peppers, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, and it's tossed with cooked pasta and fresh basil. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

The inspiration for this recipe came to me one night when I was trying to figure out what to make for dinner. I had some leftover pesto in the fridge, and I wanted to use it up. I also had some roasted red peppers that I had roasted earlier in the week. I thought about combining the two ingredients, and the idea for this pasta dish was born.

Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 10 | Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) package dried pasta
• 1 cup jarred pesto
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions.
2. In a separate pan, heat pesto and roasted red peppers over medium heat until warmed through.
3. Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the pan with the pesto sauce.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce is creamy and well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer pasta to individual plates and garnish with chopped basil.

Why It Works

• The combination of pesto and roasted red peppers is a winning one. The pesto provides a rich, herbaceous flavor, while the roasted red peppers add a touch of sweetness and smokiness.
• The heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and luxurious, and the Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor.
• The fresh basil adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
• This recipe is quick and easy to make, and it's a great way to use up leftover pesto and roasted red peppers.