This Chickpea Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a simple, flavorful dish that combines the richness of roasted red peppers with the wholesome goodness of chickpea pasta. It’s perfect for anyone craving a nutritious, gluten-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!

When I first tried Chickpea Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, I wasn’t expecting it to become one of my all-time favorite pasta dishes. As someone who loves pasta but needs to keep things gluten-free, I often find myself experimenting with different types of gluten-free pasta, and chickpea penne has quickly become one of my go-tos.

The hearty texture of chickpea pasta pairs perfectly with the smoky, sweet flavor of roasted red peppers, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor.

I can’t help but smile every time I make this recipe because it’s so simple yet so delicious. The roasted red pepper sauce is creamy, rich, and full of depth, while the chickpea penne adds a nice protein boost to the dish.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this Chickpea Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is sure to hit the spot. It’s one of those dishes that I keep coming back to, especially when I’m craving something comforting but still light and healthy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Filling: Chickpea penne is high in protein and fiber, making this dish both satisfying and packed with nutrients.
Vibrant and Flavorful: The roasted red pepper sauce adds a smoky, sweet depth of flavor that complements the nutty taste of chickpea pasta beautifully.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for a busy day when you want something wholesome but don’t have much time to spare.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, and it can also be easily made dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.
Customizable: Add extra vegetables, toss in some grilled chicken, or switch up the seasonings to make this dish your own!

Ingredients

To make this Chickpea Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb chickpea penne pasta (or any gluten-free pasta of your choice)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth for added flavor)
1/4 cup cashews (soaked in water for 20 minutes for creaminess)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the chickpea penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the cooking water, and set it aside.
Roast the Bell Peppers: While the pasta cooks, roast the red bell peppers. You can do this by either grilling them on an open flame, broiling them in the oven, or placing them on a stovetop burner. Once roasted, place them in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for a few minutes. Afterward, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers.
Make the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted bell peppers, soaked cashews, vegetable broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with a little more broth if needed.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine the Sauce and Pasta: Pour the roasted red pepper sauce into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir to combine and heat through. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked chickpea penne to the skillet, tossing the pasta to coat it evenly with the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Serve immediately while hot.

Variations

Add Vegetables: For a more colorful and nutrient-packed dish, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce before tossing it with the pasta.
Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For an added protein boost, top your pasta with grilled chicken breast or crispy tofu for a satisfying meal.
Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and opt for a vegan-friendly alternative to make this dish completely plant-based.
Spicy Version: Add a bit more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the roasted red pepper sauce ahead of time? Yes! The roasted red pepper sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when ready to serve. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 1 month.
What if I can’t find chickpea penne? If you can’t find chickpea penne, you can use any gluten-free pasta of your choice, such as rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or even gluten-free spaghetti. The sauce will pair beautifully with any pasta you choose.
Can I make this dish nut-free? Absolutely! Instead of cashews, you can use sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether and substitute with extra vegetable broth or a bit of coconut milk for creaminess.

How to Serve

Chickpea Penne with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

As a Main Course: It’s filling and hearty enough to be served as a stand-alone dish. Pair it with a side of fresh greens or a light salad to balance the meal.
With Grilled Vegetables: Serve the pasta alongside grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus, eggplant, or broccoli for a wholesome, plant-based dinner.
With a Side of Garlic Bread: For a comforting meal, pair this dish with a slice of garlic bread or gluten-free toast to soak up the extra sauce.