Smooth Penne with Bell Pepper Cream

Smooth Penne with Bell Pepper Cream is a creamy and colorful first course. Here is a simple recipe to make it:

Ingredients

• 350 g smooth penne
• 2 red bell peppers
• 2 yellow bell peppers
• 1 small onion
• 1 garlic clove
• 150 ml heavy cream or plant-based alternative
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino (optional)

Preparation

1. Clean the bell peppers by removing the stem, seeds, and inner white membranes, then cut them into pieces.

2. In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic in extra virgin olive oil until they become translucent.

3. Add the bell pepper pieces and cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until softened.

4. Remove the garlic and transfer the bell peppers and onion to a blender or use an immersion blender to reduce everything to a smooth cream.

5. Return the bell pepper cream to the skillet and add the cream; adjust salt and pepper. Cook over low heat for a few minutes until a homogeneous sauce is obtained.

6. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the smooth penne al dente.

7. Drain the pasta, reserving some cooking water, and add it to the bell pepper cream; if necessary, use the cooking water to reach the desired consistency.

8. Mix well and let the pasta absorb the flavors for one minute.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra savory note. This dish brings to the table the sweet flavor of bell peppers enriched by a velvety creaminess. Enjoy your meal!