Roasted Red Pepper Risoni Recipe: A Creamy and Flavorful Dish

If you’re looking for a dish that combines creamy textures with rich flavors, Roasted Red Pepper Risoni is an excellent choice. Risoni, also known as orzo, is a small, rice-shaped pasta that pairs wonderfully with a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll combine the delicate texture of risoni with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, creating a mouthwatering, comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as a main course, this recipe is both versatile and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in and explore how to make this roasted red pepper risoni from scratch!

Ingredients:

To make this flavorful roasted red pepper risoni, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup risoni (or orzo pasta)
2 large red bell peppers (or 1 jar of roasted red peppers if you’re short on time)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for roasting)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 cup heavy cream (or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added depth)
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Red Peppers:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut the red bell peppers in half, removing the stems, seeds, and membranes.
Place the peppers, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the peppers are soft.
Once roasted, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, peel off the charred skin and discard it. You should be left with tender, sweet red pepper flesh. Set the roasted peppers aside.

2. Cook the Risoni (Orzo Pasta):

While the peppers are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the risoni and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

3. Prepare the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

In a food processor or blender, add the roasted red peppers and blend until smooth. You can also add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to help blend the peppers if necessary.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the blended roasted red pepper sauce to the skillet with the garlic. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Combine the Sauce and Pasta:

Once the roasted red pepper sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the heavy cream (or non-dairy alternative) and smoked paprika. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if desired.
Add the cooked risoni to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy roasted red pepper sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese if using, stirring it in to give the dish an extra creamy and cheesy richness.

5. Serve and Garnish:

Once the pasta is well-coated with the sauce, transfer the risoni to serving plates or a large serving dish.
Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve immediately while it’s still warm and enjoy this creamy, smoky dish!

Serving Suggestions:

This Roasted Red Pepper Risoni is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:

Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Serve the risoni alongside grilled chicken breast or shrimp for a complete and satisfying meal.
Salad: Pair with a light, fresh salad, such as a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the risoni.
Roasted Vegetables: Complement the smoky flavors of the roasted red peppers with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to scoop up any extra sauce.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Red Pepper Risoni:

Creamy and Flavorful: The roasted red peppers lend a natural sweetness and smoky depth to the creamy sauce, making this dish irresistible.
Comforting Yet Light: With the soft risoni and the creamy sauce, this dish feels indulgent but isn’t overly heavy.
Versatile: Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a main course, this recipe can be adapted to your preferences and paired with a variety of proteins and sides.
Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor profile, this dish is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients and simple steps.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress guests at dinner parties, family gatherings, or even casual weeknight dinners.

Tips for Making the Best Roasted Red Pepper Risoni:

Use Fresh Roasted Peppers: While you can use jarred roasted red peppers, fresh roasted peppers bring a deeper, smokier flavor. Roasting them yourself also gives you control over the seasoning.
Make It Vegan: For a vegan version, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili flakes, or even incorporating a bit of sriracha or hot sauce for extra spice.
Make It One-Pot: If you prefer a one-pot meal, you can cook the risoni directly in the skillet with the sauce, adding water or broth as needed for a more cohesive dish.

Conclusion:

This Roasted Red Pepper Risoni is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy, smoky sauce and tender pasta. It’s an easy-to-make, yet sophisticated dish that is sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your appetite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit. So grab some risoni, fire up the oven to roast those red peppers, and treat yourself to a deliciously creamy meal that is bursting with flavor!