PENNE PASTA WITH PEPPERS

A very quick and filling dish of pasta with red peppers, garlic, basil and Parmesan.

Serves 2

• 2 large red peppers, cut into strips
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed (or use a garlic press)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• big handful fresh basil or parsley, roughly chopped
• 250g (8 oz) penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and cook the peppers over a medium heat for at least 10 minutes until very soft. When you begin to cook them, they will steam as all the natural waters are released. The steaming subsides and the peppers turn a lovely caramel colour when they are ready.
2. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in plenty of boiling salted water until tender. Drain well and add to the frying pan. Toss in the herbs, Parmesan and plenty of seasoning. Mix well together, spoon into bowls and eat immediately.