Spaghetti with peppers and garlic

Delicious pasta recipe with bell pepper and garlic sauce

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Welcome to the savory world of pasta! Today, I will guide you step by step through a simple and quick recipe for pasta with bell pepper and garlic sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also full of flavors, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress friends at a special meal.

Let's start with a brief introduction to the ingredients. Using quality ingredients is essential for achieving a perfect result. Barilla pasta is known for its texture and pairs excellently with this sauce. Fresh garlic adds an intense flavor, while the red bell pepper brings natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of color.

Ingredients:
- 200 g Barilla pasta (spaghetti or your preferred type)
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 5 garlic cloves
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation steps:

1. Boiling the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to the water to season the pasta. When the water is boiling, add the Barilla pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 to 12 minutes, depending on the type chosen. Once al dente, drain well in a colander and set aside.

2. Preparing the sauce
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Meanwhile, peel and finely chop the 5 garlic cloves. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic and a tablespoon of water. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until it starts to release its aroma, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic becomes bitter.

3. Adding the bell pepper
Wash the red bell pepper well and cut it into small cubes. Add it to the skillet over the garlic, along with 1/2 cup of water. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. The bell pepper will become soft and incorporate the garlic flavor.

4. Thickening the sauce
In a small bowl, mix the tomato juice with 1 tablespoon of flour. This combination will help thicken the sauce and bring a creamy texture. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir well with a spatula. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a little water until you achieve the desired consistency.

5. Seasoning
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Serving
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix well with the sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can serve the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil on top and, if desired, with grated parmesan or fresh dill for an extra flavor boost.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of spice, you can sprinkle some chili flakes or fresh herbs like basil for an extra freshness.
- This sauce is easily adaptable! Instead of red bell pepper, you can use yellow or green bell peppers, and for a more complex flavor, add some black olives or capers.

Nutrition and calories:
This recipe provides a balanced meal, rich in carbohydrates from the pasta and nutrients from the vegetables. One serving has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the type of oil and the amount of parmesan used. Pasta is an excellent source of energy, and the red bell pepper is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for extra fiber and nutrients.
- Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. Reheat it before adding the pasta.
- What type of drink pairs best with this pasta? A delicious white wine or a lemon-infused mineral water will perfectly balance the flavors of this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this pasta recipe with bell pepper and garlic sauce. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly delicious! Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share the result with your loved ones!