Dive into a vibrant Mediterranean delight with our Pasta with Sweet and Hot Peppers, Beans, Lemon, and Olives! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that brings together the sweetness of peppers, the heartiness of black beans, and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe is a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup sweet peppers, sliced
- 1 cup hot peppers, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sweet and hot peppers, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until they become slightly softened and start to caramelize.
- Add drained and rinsed black beans to the pepper mixture. Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the beans through.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water for potential sauce adjustment.
- Transfer the pasta directly into the skillet with peppers and beans. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta mixture. Add sliced olives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If the pasta seems dry, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for a pasta shape that holds sauce well, like fusilli or penne, to maximize flavor absorption.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of hot peppers according to your spice tolerance. You can even mix in some mild peppers for a balanced flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and enhances the flavors of the peppers and olives. For an extra zing, consider adding lemon zest!
- Sauté with Care: When sautéing the peppers, keep an eye on them to ensure they caramelize without burning. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Pasta Water Magic: Reserve that pasta water! It’s starchy and helps create a silky sauce that brings the whole dish together.
- Garnish for Flair: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish. A sprinkle of feta cheese also complements the flavors beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
