Penne with Roasted Peppers, Saffron, and Basil Cream

Recipe by: Deborah Madison | from The Savory Way

Cookstr

Course: Main Course

Total Time: Under 1 Hour

Skill Level: Moderate

Cost: Inexpensive

penne-with-roasted-peppers-saffron-and-basil-cream

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This colorful pasta is filled with the smoky, rich flavors of grilled peppers and saffron. Penne, or any other hollow or twisted pasta shape, is right for this sauce. If you have roasted peppers on hand, this pasta can be assembled in just a few moments.

Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 large red bell pepper
1 large yellow bell pepper
1/8 teaspoon saffron threads
½ cup hot water
2 large tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium-sized red onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, pounded to a paste or finely chopped
A handful of basil leaves, finely sliced
1 cup half and half
Salt
¾ pound penne or other dried pasta
Freshly ground pepper
Freshly grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

Directions

Roast the peppers. Cut them into small squares and set aside.

Cover the saffron threads with the hot water. Bring a small pan of water to a boil, submerge the tomatoes for 15 seconds, and remove them. Take off the skins, slice the tomatoes in half, gently squeeze out the juices, and cut the flesh into small squares.

Warm the oil in a wide skillet and add the onion. Cook over medium-high heat until the onion is just starting to color; then add the garlic, a few tablespoons water, and half the basil. Continue cooking until the onions have softened; then add the peppers, tomatoes, saffron threads and the liquid, and half-and-half; simmer until the sauce has thickened as much as you like.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt to taste and the pasta, and cook until it is al dente. Drain and add it to the sauce. Gently toss to combine and season with plenty of pepper. Serve garnished with the remaining basil and a light dusting of cheese.

Editor's Note

Nutritional information includes 1/8 teaspoon of added salt per serving. Nutritional information does not include freshly grated romano or parmesan cheese.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Nutrients per serving (% daily value)

Calories 477kcal (24%)

Calcium 112mg (11%)

Vitamin C 153mg (255%)

Vitamin A 170mcg RAE (6%)

Potassium 721mg

Magnesium 75mg

Protein 15g

Sugar 8g

Fiber 6g

Total Carbohydrate 78g