Name: Red Pesto Pasta with Chicken, Roasted Red Peppers, and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 chicken breast; 1 tbsp spring onion, sliced; 60 g red pesto; 5 cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 red pepper, sliced; 10 g Belazu Rose Harissa Paste; 200 g casareccia pasta (or any pasta of choice); 60 g mascarpone; handful of spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, to top

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Introduction

Red Pesto Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy mascarpone, and a spicy twist of harissa. It’s a colorful, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.

A white bowl filled with a creamy orange pasta dish that has one thick layer of pasta mixed with chunks of chicken and red bell pepper strips. On top, there is a sprinkle of light yellow grated cheese and small slices of bright green spring onion, adding a fresh touch. In the soft-focus background, a white bowl contains a light snack, and some chopped spring onion pieces lie on a white marbled surface. The image is bright and clear, showing the rich texture of the sauce and the softness of the pasta. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 chicken breast
1 tbsp spring onion, sliced
60 g red pesto
5 cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red pepper, sliced
10 g Belazu Rose Harissa Paste
200 g casareccia pasta (or any pasta you prefer)
60 g mascarpone
Handful of spinach
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese, to top

Instructions

Step 1: Cook 200 g of casareccia pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the chicken breast with the harissa paste and let it marinate for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken, cherry tomatoes, and red pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is browned and the vegetables soften.
Step 4: Stir in the mascarpone, red pesto, and additional harissa if you want more heat. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and creamy.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta and spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the spinach has wilted. Let it simmer for a couple more minutes.
Step 6: Serve hot, topped with sliced spring onions and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of harissa paste or omit it entirely.
Using fresh basil or oregano can add a lovely herbal note to the dish.
Swap mascarpone for cream cheese or crème fraîche for a slightly different creamy texture.

Storage

Store leftover red pesto pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A close-up of a creamy pasta dish served in a white bowl, showing three main layers: the bottom layer is light golden pasta tubes mixed with soft red pepper strips and bits of herbs; the middle layer is covered in a thick, rich orange sauce that coats chunks of tender chicken and pasta; the top layer is sprinkled with bright green chopped spring onions and grated pale cheese that adds a crumbly texture. The dish looks warm and hearty, placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. The sauce works well with most pasta shapes.

Is there a substitute for Belazu Rose Harissa Paste?

If you can’t find Belazu Rose Harissa Paste, you can use any harissa paste or a mix of chili paste and smoked paprika to achieve a similar spicy flavor.