Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
If you’re craving something creamy, delicious, and packed with vibrant flavor, this Easy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the smooth texture of classic hummus with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, this dish is a perfect snack, dip, or spread that’s simple to whip up and will quickly become your go-to for gatherings or solo noshing. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful, crowd-pleasing favorite that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Made from pantry staples and a handful of fresh roasted peppers, this recipe is quick and fuss-free.
- Vibrant flavor: The roasted red peppers add a sweet, smoky depth that elevates traditional hummus beyond the ordinary.
- Versatile use: Perfect as a dip, sandwich spread, or side dollop, making it a multi-purpose culinary winner.
- Healthy and wholesome: Loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you energized and satisfied.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the spice level or add extra herbs to suit your unique palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each plays a crucial role—from creamy chickpeas to smoky peppers—working together to create a beautifully balanced flavor and texture.
- Canned chickpeas: These provide the creamy base and are a fantastic source of protein and fiber.
- Roasted red peppers: Packed with sweetness and a subtle smoky note, they give this hummus its signature color and taste.
- Tahini: A rich sesame paste that adds depth and a smooth, nutty layer to the hummus.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors with a refreshing tang and balances the richness.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse a gentle heat and savory aroma that lifts every bite.
- Olive oil: Adds luscious texture and enhances the richness of the blend.
- Ground cumin: Imparts a warm earthiness that complements the peppers and chickpeas.
- Salt and pepper: Essential finishing touches to amplify all the other flavors.
Variations for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to mix and match these ideas and make your own delicious spin on Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a fiery twist that excites the palate.
- Herb infusion: Blend in fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley to bring a fresh, herbal brightness.
- Sun-dried tomato boost: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an intensified, tangy flavor profile.
- Greek yogurt addition: Stir in some Greek yogurt for a tangier, creamier texture that’s extra smooth.
- Vegan creaminess: Swap tahini for almond butter for a slightly different nuttiness that’s just as delicious.
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Rinse and drain your canned chickpeas thoroughly, reserving some of the liquid for adjusting consistency later. This ensures a clean base free of excess salt or starch and makes for a silky final texture.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
Step 3: Adjust the Texture
Slowly drizzle in olive oil and reserved chickpea liquid while blending until you reach your desired creamy consistency—smooth but still thick enough to scoop or spread.
Step 4: Taste and Customize
Give your hummus a taste and adjust seasoning as needed with extra salt, lemon, or spices. This is the moment to add any variation ingredients you prefer for a personal touch.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle over a little olive oil, and garnish with herbs or paprika if desired. It’s ready to enjoy now or chill in the fridge for a richer flavor later.
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
- Use good quality roasted peppers: Freshly roasted or jarred roasted red peppers with no added sugars keep the flavor authentic and vibrant.
- Don’t skip the tahini: It’s the secret to a creamy texture and nutty undertone, so choose a smooth and fresh tahini.
- Slowly add liquid: Add olive oil and reserved chickpea water gradually to avoid a runny dip.
- Fresh lemon juice over bottled: Fresh squeezed juice brings brightness that truly wakes up the flavors.
- Chill before serving: Letting the hummus rest in the fridge for at least an hour lets the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of smoked paprika, chopped fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, or an extra drizzle of olive oil not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
Pair your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with warm pita bread, crisp vegetable sticks like carrots and cucumbers, or even spread on sandwiches and wraps for a nutrient-packed lunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, serve the hummus in a hollowed-out roasted red pepper or mini bell pepper “boats.” Alternatively, use it as a vibrant sauce base under grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Roasted Red Pepper Hummus stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze this hummus in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
Reheating
Hummus is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no real reheating needed. If desired, simply let it sit out for 15 minutes to lose its chill and soften up.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted?
While fresh red peppers can be used, roasting them brings out natural sweetness and a smoky flavor that makes this hummus truly special.
Is Roasted Red Pepper Hummus gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I make this hummus oil-free?
Absolutely. You can omit the olive oil or replace it with a bit of water or reserved chickpea liquid to achieve a creamy texture without added oil.
How spicy is Roasted Red Pepper Hummus?
This recipe is typically mild, but you can easily add spices like cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer a little heat.
What’s the best way to serve Roasted Red Pepper Hummus for a party?
Serve it in a colorful bowl with an assortment of dippables like pita bread, veggies, crackers, and olives for an inviting spread everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about whipping up your own Roasted Red Pepper Hummus—rich, creamy, and bursting with bright, smoky flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quick snack, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate any meal or snack time. Give it a try, customize to your liking, and watch this become your new favorite red pepper-inspired delight!
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Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a creamy, vibrant dip that perfectly balances the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers with the smooth, nutty texture of chickpeas. Easy to prepare in under 15 minutes with wholesome ingredients, this versatile hummus is perfect for snacking, dipping, or spreading, and is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (freshly roasted or jarred, drained)
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water or reserved chickpea liquid, as needed to adjust consistency
Optional Variations
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or splash of hot sauce (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil (for an herbaceous twist)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra smoky depth)
- Sunflower seed butter (as nut-free tahini alternative)
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt or vegan cashew cream (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Drain and rinse one can of chickpeas to remove excess sodium and ensure a fresh base. If using fresh roasted peppers, peel and seed them, or simply drain the jarred variety.
- Blend the Base: Combine chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the mixture begins to smooth out.
- Adjust Texture: Add water or reserved chickpea liquid little by little to achieve your desired creaminess. Blend thoroughly until silky and smooth, scraping the sides as needed.
- Taste and Fine Tune: Give your hummus a taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, lemon juice, or cumin as you prefer. Blend again briefly to mix in any additions.
- Serve or Store: Transfer your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus to a bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and garnish before serving or refrigerating.
Notes
- Use quality roasted peppers for the best flavor: roast your own or choose high-quality jarred ones without additives.
- Fresh tahini offers a richer, less bitter taste—essential for smooth hummus.
- Regularly scrape the food processor sides to ensure an even, creamy consistency.
- Customize creaminess by using chickpea liquid for a lighter texture or olive oil for extra richness.
- Chill the hummus in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to let flavors marry.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tablespoons
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted red pepper hummus, vegan dip, gluten free, creamy hummus, healthy snack, Mediterranean dip