Mary Berry Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make pasta dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table, Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is the perfect recipe to try!

This dish combines the richness of Romano cheese with the bright freshness of peppers and a medley of aromatic herbs, creating a balance of savory and zesty flavors that make each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, which means you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Mary Berry Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne, you’ll need a delightful blend of fresh, vibrant ingredients that combine to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. The ingredients are carefully chosen to enhance the natural sweetness of the peppers and the earthiness of the herbs, bringing together a balance of textures and tastes. Here’s a detailed list of the essentials:

1. Romano Peppers – These peppers are key to the dish. They are a type of sweet pepper, with a mild, slightly tangy flavor, and a firm texture that holds up well when cooked. Romano peppers have a characteristic red color and are known for their sweet, rich taste. You’ll need about 2 or 3 large Romano peppers, depending on their size.

2. Penne Pasta – Penne, a tube-shaped pasta, is perfect for this dish because its ridges help catch the sauce, allowing each bite to be filled with flavor. You can choose whole wheat or gluten-free penne if preferred, though the standard durum wheat penne works wonderfully in this recipe.

3. Olive Oil – Extra virgin olive oil is the best choice for sautéing the peppers and infusing the dish with a subtle, fruity flavor. It also helps create a silky sauce that binds everything together.

4. Garlic – A couple of cloves of garlic, finely chopped or minced, provide aromatic depth to the dish, complementing the sweetness of the peppers.

5. Fresh Basil and Parsley – These herbs add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. Fresh basil will give a slightly peppery and sweet edge, while parsley offers a mild and clean taste that balances the other ingredients.

6. Parmesan Cheese – A generous sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan brings saltiness and creaminess to the dish. The nutty flavor of Parmesan pairs perfectly with the peppers and pasta.

7. Tomato Puree – This adds a rich, tangy base to the sauce, enhancing the depth of flavor and providing a beautiful reddish hue to the dish.

8. Salt and Pepper – These basic seasonings will bring out the flavors in the dish and add the necessary seasoning to balance the sweetness of the peppers and the richness of the cheese.

9. A pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – If you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can add a subtle spicy kick to the dish, which complements the sweetness of the Romano peppers.

Equipment Needed

Creating a Mary Berry dish in the kitchen is always a joy, but using the right tools will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this flavorful pasta dish:

1. Large Pot for Pasta – A big pot is essential to cook your penne to perfection. It needs to be large enough to allow the pasta to move freely while boiling. The key to pasta perfection is not overcrowding it while it cooks.

2. Large Frying Pan or Skillet – This is where the magic happens. You’ll sauté the Romano peppers, garlic, and herbs in this pan. A large frying pan gives enough space to cook everything evenly and allows for easy tossing and stirring.

3. Sharp Knife – A good, sharp knife will make slicing the peppers, garlic, and herbs a breeze. It ensures clean, even cuts and helps preserve the texture of the ingredients.

4. Chopping Board – To work safely and efficiently, a sturdy chopping board is essential. It’s the foundation for preparing all your fresh ingredients.

5. Grater – You’ll need a fine grater for the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and delivers a more pronounced flavor than pre-grated varieties.

6. Colander – After cooking your pasta, you’ll need a colander to drain it. Make sure to reserve a little of the pasta water before draining-this starchy liquid is useful for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.

7. Serving Plates or Bowls – This is where you’ll serve your masterpiece once it’s complete. A wide, shallow bowl works best for plating pasta dishes like this one, giving it room to shine.

8. Wooden Spoon or Tongs – A wooden spoon or tongs will help you stir the peppers and toss the pasta into the sauce without damaging the ingredients or scratching your cookware.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne

Making Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is relatively simple, but the steps come together beautifully to create a dish that is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Here’s how to make it:

1. Boil The Pasta

   Begin by filling a large pot with water, adding a good pinch of salt, and bringing it to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta to the water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, reserve a small cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

2. Prepare The Vegetables

   While the pasta cooks, slice the Romano peppers into thin strips, discarding the seeds and stems. Finely chop the garlic and roughly chop the fresh basil and parsley.

3. Cook The Peppers

   Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced peppers and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   You want the peppers to become tender and slightly caramelized, but not mushy. Add the garlic in the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.

4. Add The Sauce

   Stir in the tomato puree and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomato sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.

5. Combine The Pasta And Sauce

   Once the peppers and sauce are ready, add the cooked pasta to the pan. Toss everything together, ensuring the penne is coated in the flavorful sauce. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Add The Herbs And Cheese

   Stir in the fresh basil and parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and coat the pasta beautifully.

7. Serve And Enjoy

   Divide the pasta among plates or bowls and top with a little extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for garnish. Serve immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet peppers, aromatic herbs, and cheesy goodness.

Expert Tips

• Choose Sweet Peppers Wisely: Romano peppers are sweet and flavorful, but if they aren’t available, you can substitute them with other types of sweet peppers, such as red bell peppers. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. Overcooking it will result in a mushy texture, which can ruin the dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley make a huge difference in the flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, try using dried herbs, but reduce the amount by about half, as dried herbs are more potent.

• Adjust the Heat: The red pepper flakes are optional, depending on how much heat you like in your dish. If you prefer a milder version, you can skip them entirely or reduce the amount.

• Save Some Pasta Water: Always save a bit of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is great for adjusting the consistency of your sauce. Add a little at a time to make the sauce creamier or looser, depending on your preference.

Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, juicy Romano peppers combined with the aromatic herbs and Parmesan cheese create a comforting yet sophisticated dish.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, it’s sure to impress. With its simple steps and vibrant flavors, this recipe is one that both beginner and experienced cooks can enjoy. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bring a little piece of Mary Berry’s kitchen into your own.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne

Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is a delightful and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Its rich combination of roasted peppers, herbs, and penne pasta is a perfect base for various adaptations. Here are some easy recipe variations you can try, each adding a new twist to this already fantastic meal.

1. Add Protein With Chicken Or Prawns

For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken breast or pan-seared prawns to the dish. The succulent texture of chicken or the sweet, briny flavor of prawns complements the creamy and aromatic sauce.

Simply cook the protein of your choice separately and add it to the pasta just before serving. You could even season the chicken or prawns with garlic, lemon zest, or a dash of paprika for extra flavor.

2. Vegetarian Twist With Grilled Tofu Or Tempeh

If you’re looking to keep the dish vegetarian or vegan, adding grilled tofu or tempeh can provide the necessary protein boost. Tofu can be pan-fried until crispy and tossed into the pasta, adding a satisfying texture. Tempeh, on the other hand, has a slightly nutty flavor that works beautifully with the roasted peppers and fresh herbs.

3. Change The Herbs

While Mary Berry’s recipe uses a specific blend of herbs to bring out the Mediterranean flair, you can personalize the dish with a different herb profile. Try fresh basil and oregano for a more aromatic taste, or experiment with rosemary and thyme for a heartier flavor. If you want an extra kick, a little fresh chili can be added for spice, and a sprinkle of mint can provide a refreshing twist.

4. Swap Penne For Other Pasta Shapes

Though penne is the traditional choice in this dish, experimenting with different pasta shapes can add a new dimension to the recipe. Fusilli or rotini can better capture the sauce in their spirals, while spaghetti or linguine offers a more classic pasta experience. You could even try whole wheat pasta for a nuttier, healthier alternative.

5. Add Cheese For Extra Creaminess

If you’re a fan of cheese, adding some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano will elevate the dish. For a creamy variation, you could stir in a little ricotta or mascarpone. If you’re looking to add more texture and flavor complexity, try tossing in some crumbled feta cheese, which pairs nicely with the roasted peppers.

6. Roast Vegetables For More Depth

Instead of just using roasted peppers, add other vegetables to the mix. Roasted aubergines (eggplants), courgettes (zucchini), or tomatoes will intensify the dish’s natural sweetness. These additional vegetables also offer a wider range of textures that can make each bite more interesting.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly ensures that your Mary Berry Romano Pepper and Herb Penne maintains its flavor and texture for later enjoyment. Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your leftovers.

1. Cool The Dish Quickly

When storing leftovers, it’s important to cool the pasta down as quickly as possible to prevent bacterial growth. Allow the dish to rest at room temperature for no more than two hours before placing it in the fridge. To speed up the cooling process, you can spread the pasta out on a baking sheet in a thin layer.

2. Use Airtight Containers

To preserve the freshness and flavor of the pasta, store it in airtight containers. This helps lock in moisture and prevents the pasta from drying out. Glass containers are a great option because they don’t absorb odors, while plastic containers with tight-fitting lids will also work well.

3. Separate Protein And Sauce

If you’ve added protein to your pasta, such as chicken or prawns, it’s best to store them separately from the pasta itself. This prevents the protein from becoming soggy as it sits in the sauce. You can add the protein back into the pasta when reheating it.

4. Store For 3-4 Days

Pasta dishes like Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne are best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days of making them. After this time, the sauce may begin to break down, and the texture of the pasta can deteriorate. If you plan to store it for longer, consider freezing it.

5. Freezing Leftovers

If you want to store your Romano Pepper and Herb Penne for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Make sure to place the pasta in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Label the container with the date so you can keep track of how long it’s been frozen. Frozen pasta can typically last for 1-2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What Goes Well With Romano Pepper And Herb Penne

Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is a flavorful, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are a few suggestions to complement this dish.

1. Fresh Side Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect accompaniment to the rich, savory penne. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette-perhaps with a squeeze of lemon-adds a bright contrast to the creamy sauce. Try combining arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a few slivers of red onion for extra zest.

2. Garlic Bread

No pasta dish is complete without some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. The crispy, garlicky bread acts as the perfect vehicle for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate. You can prepare a simple garlic butter spread and bake the bread until golden brown for a satisfying side.

3. Roasted Vegetables

To balance the richness of the pasta, roasted vegetables make an excellent addition. Try oven-roasting carrots, Brussels sprouts, or even butternut squash for a hearty, wholesome side. The natural sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs perfectly with the peppery pasta.

4. Crisp White Wine

A chilled glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with this dish. The acidity in the wine helps cut through the creamy texture of the sauce and enhances the herby flavors of the penne. For a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of lemon or cucumber.

5. Grilled Chicken Or Fish

If you’re craving more protein, a grilled chicken breast or a light, flaky fish like cod or tilapia works wonderfully with this pasta. The simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and lemon lets the fresh ingredients of the Romano Pepper and Herb Penne shine while adding a substantial protein element to the meal.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne is a versatile and delicious pasta dish that can be customized in countless ways to suit your taste preferences. Whether you choose to add grilled chicken, swap the pasta shape, or experiment with different herbs, the dish remains a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors.

With proper storage practices, leftovers can stay fresh for days, and with the right sides and beverages, you can create a balanced, satisfying meal that will impress friends and family. Whether enjoyed fresh or as a leftover, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne?

To make Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne, you will need penne pasta, red and yellow peppers, garlic, fresh herbs (such as basil and oregano), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a variety of seasonings like salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne?

The preparation for Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper and Herb Penne takes around 10-15 minutes. The cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes, so the entire dish can be ready in about 35-40 minutes.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta For This Recipe?

Yes, while penne pasta is recommended for this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta shape of your choice, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. You can cook the pasta and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently with a little olive oil before serving.

What Makes Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Unique?

This dish stands out because of its simple yet flavorful combination of fresh bell peppers, fragrant herbs, and the creamy richness of Romano cheese. The light yet satisfying nature of the dish makes it an ideal meal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Can I Add Protein To Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne?

Absolutely!

You can add grilled chicken, prawns, or even tofu to the dish for extra protein. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider adding some roasted chickpeas or lentils for a hearty touch.

Is Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians. It contains no meat or animal by-products (except for the Parmesan cheese). If you’re vegan, you can substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

What Kind Of Herbs Work Best For Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne?

Mary Berry’s recipe calls for fresh basil and oregano, which provide a lovely aromatic flavor. However, you can also experiment with thyme, parsley, or even a touch of rosemary for variation.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne Spicier?

Yes, if you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the recipe or add a chopped fresh chili. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

How Should I Store Leftovers Of Mary Berry’s Romano Pepper And Herb Penne?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a little water to prevent it from drying out.