Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce

Looking for a creamy, flavorful, and wholesome sauce that elevates any pasta or roasted veggie dish? This Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce is your answer. Smooth, slightly sweet, and luxuriously rich without heavy cream, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or anytime you want a healthy twist on a classic comfort food. The roasted red pepper and cashews create a velvety texture, while nutritional yeast adds a subtle cheesy flavor, making this sauce both satisfying and totally vegetarian-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, rich, and dairy-free (or vegetarian if using Parmesan)
• Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy nights
• Versatile: serve over pasta, spaghetti squash, or roasted vegetables
• Packed with flavor from roasted red peppers, cashews, and spices
• Easy to customize with beans, grilled veggies, or extra herbs

Ingredients

• Red bell pepper – Sweet and flavorful, forms the base of the sauce
• Water – Helps blend the nuts into a creamy consistency
• Raw cashews or macadamia nuts – Provide rich creaminess and healthy fats
• Nutritional yeast or Parmesan cheese – Adds cheesy, savory flavor
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors
• Onion powder – Boosts savory depth
• Ground turmeric – Adds subtle warmth and color
• Ground nutmeg (optional) – Provides a delicate aromatic note
• Pasta, spaghetti squash, or vegetables – Your canvas for this sauce
• Optional add-ins: Grilled or roasted vegetables, beans, or proteins

How to Make Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce

Prep the Nuts

Place the cashews (or macadamia nuts) in a bowl and cover with water. Let soak for 6–8 hours to soften. Drain fully and pat dry.

Blend the Sauce

In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the soaked nuts, red bell pepper, half a cup of water, nutritional yeast (or Parmesan), salt, onion powder, turmeric, and optional nutmeg. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.

Cook Pasta and Combine

While cooking pasta in salted water according to package directions, heat the sauce in a pot until warmed through. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse. Pour the sauce over the pasta and toss until evenly coated. Stir in any cooked vegetables, beans, or other add-ins as desired. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Success

• For a deeper flavor, roast the red pepper before blending.
• Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest texture.
• Don’t rinse the pasta after cooking to help the sauce stick better.
• Make ahead: sauce can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Bowl for soaking nuts
• Pot for heating sauce
• Separate pot for cooking pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Spicy version: Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes while blending
• Herb-infused: Blend in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for extra aroma
• Vegetable-packed: Stir in roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli
• Low-fat option: Use less nuts and add more water or vegetable broth for a lighter sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce over fettuccine, spaghetti squash, roasted vegetables, or even as a creamy dip. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flair. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can I use roasted red peppers instead of raw?
Yes! Roasting adds extra depth and sweetness to the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, if you use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

What if I don’t have cashews or macadamia nuts?
Almonds or sunflower seeds can work, but cashews provide the creamiest texture.

Final Thoughts

This Red Pepper Alfredo Sauce is proof that healthy, plant-based meals can still be indulgent and creamy. Quick, versatile, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for transforming simple pasta or veggies into a luxurious, satisfying meal. Try it tonight, experiment with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort.

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