Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad | Made by Meaghan Moineau

**Title: A Taste of Home: Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad**

**Description: Discover the heartwarming flavors of Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad—a dish that brings together the vibrant taste of fresh herbs and the sweet smokiness of roasted peppers. Join me as I recount a cherished family memory linked to this delightful main dish, and learn how to create this comforting recipe in your own kitchen.**

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### A Nostalgic Family Dinner: Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad

There’s something magical about a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also stirs fond memories of family gatherings. For me, Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad is one such dish. It transports me back to endless summer evenings spent at my grandmother’s house, where the kitchen was always bustling with activity and laughter.

Growing up, Sunday dinners at Grandma’s were a cherished tradition. Her small, sunlit kitchen seemed to have a life of its own, filled with the enticing aromas of fresh basil and garlic mingling with the earthy scent of roasting red bell peppers. The adults would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, while we kids played in the backyard, eagerly awaiting the call to dinner.

This recipe, a main dish that stands out for its simplicity and vibrant flavors, was often the centerpiece of those gatherings. Grandma would toss whole wheat tagliatelle with a generous helping of fresh basil, drizzling it with a fragrant mixture of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and finely chopped garlic cloves. The roasted red bell pepper salad, with its bright colors and tangy notes, provided the perfect accompaniment, balancing the richness of the pasta with a hint of smoky sweetness.

The secret ingredient that made this dish unforgettable was a touch of freshly grated horseradish, adding just the right amount of kick to the ensemble. Topped with finely sliced green onions and a sprinkle of parsley, the dish was a feast for the senses—its vibrant colors mirrored by the lively conversations around the table.

Creating this dish today in my own kitchen, I am reminded of those joyful family dinners. The aroma of the basil mingling with the roasted peppers instantly transports me back to those cherished moments. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, and to each other.

### Recipe Highlights

**Ingredients:**

- Whole wheat tagliatelle

- Red bell peppers

- Garlic cloves

- Fresh parsley

- Horseradish

- Green onions

- Lemon juice

- Extra virgin olive oil

- Sea salt

- Ground pepper

For the full instructions on how to prepare this delicious dish, please visit my blog: [Gourmandelle](http://gourmandelle.com/basil-tagliatelle-with-roasted-red-bell-pepper-salad/).

### Recipe Classification and Difficulty

This Basil Tagliatelle with Roasted Red Bell Pepper Salad is classified as a **Main Dish**. With a difficulty rating of **6 out of 10**, it’s accessible for most home cooks who are comfortable with basic pasta and salad preparation techniques. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or simply looking to enjoy a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Embrace the nostalgia and create new memories with this delightful and flavorful dish. Happy cooking!

Fire-Breathing Dragon Pasta | Made by Meaghan Moineau

# Unleash the Heat: Mastering Fire-Breathing Dragon Pasta

### A Fiery Culinary Adventure with a Nostalgic Twist

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines bold flavors with a touch of nostalgia, look no further than Fire-Breathing Dragon Pasta. This vibrant recipe not only delivers a spicy kick but also warms the heart with memories of family gatherings and shared laughter. Dive into this culinary journey where robust ingredients come together to create a main dish that’s both memorable and mouth-watering.

### Ingredients for a Fiery Feast

- 1 yellow onion, diced

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 chipotles in adobo sauce

- 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, cubed

- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

- 1 cup tomato sauce

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

- ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

- 1 cup whole heavy cream

- ½ cup sour cream

- 1 pound pasta (such as spaghetti)

- 2-3 red dried chile peppers

- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

### Instructions: Igniting the Culinary Flame

1. **Prep the Base:** In a large, deep-sided skillet or medium-sized saucepan, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until tender and translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. **Build the Flavor:** Stir in the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add the chipotles, cubed chicken, and Italian seasoning. Season again with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece of chicken is well-coated. Sauté, turning the chicken to sear on all sides.

3. **Simmer the Sauce:** Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and continue to cook for about ten minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

4. **Prepare the Pasta:** While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta to al dente according to package directions. Add the dried chiles to the boiling water with the spaghetti to infuse it with subtle heat.

5. **Complete the Dish:** Add the shrimp and heavy cream to the sauce, stirring gently. Slowly incorporate the sour cream, maintaining a slow simmer. Cook until the shrimp begin to curl, indicating they are perfectly done.

6. **Serve with Flair:** Remove the skillet from heat and serve the sauce over drained pasta (remember to remove the dried chiles). Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

### A Nostalgic Flavor Journey

The inspiration for Fire-Breathing Dragon Pasta hails from family get-togethers in the heart of summer. I vividly recall the lively backyard barbecues where my uncle, a self-proclaimed spice aficionado, would challenge us with his fiery culinary creations. Each dish was a testament to his adventurous spirit and love for bold flavors. His signature pasta, which we lovingly nicknamed the "Fire-Breathing Dragon," became a family favorite, sparking laughter and a few teary eyes from the heat. Recreating this dish is like reliving those cherished moments, where the warmth of family and fiery flavors blend seamlessly.

### Recipe Difficulty & Classification

- **Difficulty:** 6/10

- **Classification:** Main Dish

Embrace the heat and nostalgia with Fire-Breathing Dragon Pasta. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a piece of cherished family history to your table. Perfect for those who dare to spice up their culinary repertoire, this recipe promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Tag: Pasta