Easy Roasted Red Pepper Pasta (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 16 oz penne pasta or preferred shape
02 - 2 red bell peppers, diced
03 - 1 medium onion, diced
04 - 3 heaping tablespoons ajvar (recommended: Mama’s Home Style Ajvar)
05 - 1 cup reserved pasta water
06 - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
07 - 1 ½ cups heavy cream

→ Spices

08 - 2 teaspoons paprika powder
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking. Set aside.
02 - Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in the ajvar and mix until evenly combined. Immediately add 1 cup of reserved pasta water and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of flour with ¼ cup water to make a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the sauce, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Return the skillet to heat and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
05 - Add paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
06 - Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss gently until fully coated. Let it simmer on low heat for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
07 - Plate your creamy red pepper pasta and enjoy every savory bite! Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal.

# Notes:

01 - Ajvar adds a rich and smoky paprika flavor, enhancing the sauce's depth.
02 - Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.