Take your classic hummus to a whole new level with this Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus recipe! The sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers blends beautifully with chickpeas, tahini, and a hint of garlic and cumin to create a vibrant, smooth dip. Perfect as a party appetizer, a healthy snack, or a spread for sandwiches, this red pepper hummus is easy to make and packed with flavor. Garnished with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 2 large red bell peppers or ¾ cup jarred roasted red peppers
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups cooked chickpeas)
- ¼ cup tahini, add up to ½ cup for extra richness (for a lighter option, substitute with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or more to taste
- ½ clove garlic, or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- A sprinkle of flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- A pinch of paprika
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 to 4 pita bread rounds, for serving
Instructions
- Roast the Red Peppers:
- If using fresh red bell peppers, start by roasting them. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole peppers on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and the peppers are soft.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl, covering them with plastic wrap. Allow them to steam for 10 minutes; this will make it easier to remove the skins. Peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and set aside the roasted peppers.
- If using jarred roasted peppers, drain them well and proceed to the next step.
- Blend the Ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more lemon juice, garlic, or salt according to your preference. For a richer hummus, add a bit more tahini or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or extra lemon juice at a time and blend until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the roasted red pepper hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped flat-leaf parsley, a dash of paprika for color, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or use as a spread in wraps and sandwiches.
Conclusion
This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a perfect blend of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a delicious addition to any snack or meal. It’s a healthier, homemade alternative to store-bought dips and is easy to customize to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed with pita bread or as a spread, this hummus is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy it as a tasty, nutritious option at your next gathering!