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Lasagna is more than just a meal; it's a beloved comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. With its rich layers of pasta, savory marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese, lasagna embodies a culinary tradition that has been cherished for centuries. Originating from Italy, this dish carries with it a cultural significance that reflects the Italian philosophy of "la dolce vita," or the sweet life. It's a dish often associated with family gatherings, celebrations, and Sunday dinners—a testament to the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Soup

Dive into the world of homemade classic lasagna with this comprehensive guide that walks you through every step of the process. Discover the essential ingredients, from high-quality noodles and rich marinara sauce to creamy ricotta and melted cheeses. Learn about perfect layering techniques to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this guide will help you create a lasagna that warms the heart and brings friends and family together. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a labor of love that embodies the essence of Italian cooking.

Ingredients
  

4 large red bell peppers

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

A drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of cream for serving

Instructions
 

Roast the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Prepare the red bell peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and stems. Arrange the peppers cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are charred and blistered. After roasting, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 10 minutes. Carefully peel off the skins and set the roasted peppers aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes, stirring everything together for an additional minute until the mixture is fragrant and fully combined.

      Combine Ingredients: Chop the peeled roasted red peppers and incorporate them into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

        Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until creamy. If you prefer, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blending until smooth (please exercise caution with the hot liquid!).

          Add Cream and Season: Once the soup is blended to your liking, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and return the pot to low heat. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste your soup, and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

            Serve: Ladle the creamy roasted red pepper soup into warm bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little olive oil or add a swirl of cream on top before serving.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings