Spaghetti with Spicy Tomato & Pepper Sauce

The aroma of roasted red peppers mingling with fragrant garlic fills the kitchen as you prepare this delightful dish. Spaghetti with Spicy Tomato & Pepper Sauce is a vibrant and hearty meal that takes just under 30 minutes to prepare. It works beautifully because the roasted red peppers add depth to the sauce while the parmesan provides a creamy finish.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or for impressing friends at a casual gathering. It’s also a great option for meal prep; the sauce stores well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent make-ahead choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of roasted red peppers and tomatoes creates a rich, flavorful sauce.
• Cooking the garlic gently ensures it infuses without bitterness.
• The simplicity of the recipe makes it quick and satisfying.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs wonderfully with freshly grated parmesan.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious dish:

For the Sauce

• 350g roasted red pepper, drained
• 1 x 400g can chopped tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pinch chilli

For the Pasta

• 400g spaghetti

For Serving

• 120g parmesan, grated
• Salt, to serve
• Black pepper, to serve

Substitution note: Use fresh peppers if unavailable.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use canned roasted peppers for ease.
• Substitute parmesan with pecorino for a different flavor.
• Replace spaghetti with any pasta of your choice.
• Use a gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps to create your tasty pasta dish.

Blend the Sauce

Grab a blender, drain the peppers, and add them along with the tomatoes, then whizz until almost smooth.

Cook the Garlic

Place a big frying pan over medium-low heat, add the olive oil, and then either finely chop, crush, or grate your garlic cloves and add them. Cook the garlic gently until fragrant but not colored (about 2 minutes).

Add Chilli and Sauce

Add the chilli and cook for another 30 seconds. Then pour in the pepper and tomato mix and add a pinch of salt.

Simmer the Sauce

Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce simmers, cook your spaghetti in a big pan of well-salted water until al dente.

Combine and Serve

Transfer the pasta to the pan with the sauce and mix well until the spaghetti is well coated. Turn off the heat and add about one-third of your grated cheese, mixing gently until melted into the sauce. You might need to loosen it with a splash of pasta water. Taste and add salt if needed, then plate into warm bowls, topping with the remaining cheese and some black pepper.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, ideal for freezing leftover sauce.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure not to brown the garlic for a more delicate flavor.
• Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• For extra heat, add more chilli or a dash of red pepper flakes.
• Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp white wine to enhance the flavors.