Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

This roasted red pepper hummus combines the creamy texture of traditional hummus with the rich, smoky flavor of roasted peppers. It’s a delightful dip for parties, or an easy snack that pairs perfectly with fresh veggie sticks or pita bread.

Not only is this hummus full of flavor, but it’s also a healthy, plant-based alternative to many processed dips. With the addition of tahini, garlic, and cumin, each bite is packed with a deliciously complex taste. Plus, it’s simple to make, with no fancy equipment needed, just a blender or food processor. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a midday snack, this hummus is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 large red bell peppers

• 1 ½ cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 2 tablespoons tahini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until the skins are charred and blistered.

3. Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them steam for 10 minutes.

4. Peel off the skins, remove the stems and seeds, and roughly chop the peppers.

5. In a food processor, combine the roasted peppers, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

6. Process until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

8. Serve the hummus with pita bread, veggie sticks, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Why Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a Must-Try

This hummus recipe is so much more than just a dip—it’s a celebration of flavor, health, and versatility. One of the reasons why roasted red pepper hummus stands out is due to the balance of flavors. Roasting the peppers until they are slightly charred enhances their natural sweetness and imparts a smoky depth, which complements the mild taste of the chickpeas perfectly.

Additionally, the hummus is packed with heart-healthy ingredients. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, and the tahini adds a dose of healthy fats that are beneficial for your heart and overall wellness. The garlic and lemon juice bring antioxidants and a burst of flavor that lifts the dip, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Another advantage of roasted red pepper hummus is how easy it is to prepare. You can have a batch ready in under an hour, making it the perfect recipe for anyone who is short on time but still wants to enjoy something homemade and healthy. It’s also adaptable—you can easily adjust the level of smokiness, spiciness, or lemony tang according to your personal preferences.

The Health Benefits of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus not only delivers on flavor, but it also provides a multitude of health benefits that make it a guilt-free treat. The primary ingredient, chickpeas, is a nutritional powerhouse. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and keeps you feeling full longer.

Tahini, the sesame paste used in hummus, is another healthy ingredient that adds richness to the dip. It is high in unsaturated fats, which are the healthy fats that promote heart health and reduce inflammation. Tahini is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, all of which play vital roles in maintaining healthy body functions.

Red bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, an antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and protects cells from oxidative damage. They also contain carotenoids such as beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, contributing to better vision and skin health. When roasted, the peppers’ natural sugars caramelize, which brings out a rich sweetness and deepens their flavor profile, making them a perfect complement to the other ingredients.

Garlic, another key component of this hummus, has been widely recognized for its health-promoting properties. It has antibacterial and antiviral effects and can support immune health. Additionally, garlic is known to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health, making it a great addition to any diet.

How to Enjoy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some of the best ways to serve this flavorful dip:

1. As a dip: The most obvious and popular way to enjoy hummus is as a dip. Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, cucumber, or bell peppers. It’s an excellent appetizer for parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers.

2. As a spread: Use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps to add a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Roasted red pepper hummus works wonderfully in veggie wraps or as a topping for veggie burgers.

3. As a salad dressing: Thin out the hummus with a bit of water or lemon juice and drizzle it over salads for a unique dressing. The creamy texture pairs well with a variety of greens and roasted vegetables.

4. In a grain bowl: Roasted Red Pepper Hummus can be added to grain bowls for an extra boost of flavor. Pair it with quinoa, brown rice, or couscous, and top with roasted vegetables and fresh herbs for a satisfying meal.

5. With grilled meats: If you’re preparing grilled chicken, lamb, or any other type of meat, this hummus makes a fantastic accompaniment. Its smoky, creamy nature complements the savory flavors of grilled meats perfectly.

6. As a topping for roasted vegetables: Drizzle roasted red pepper hummus over your favorite roasted vegetables to enhance their flavor. It pairs particularly well with roasted cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or zucchini.

7. As a snack: Enjoy a few spoonfuls of this hummus on its own as a quick snack. It’s a healthy, satisfying option that can curb your cravings and provide a burst of energy without being overly filling.

Why Roasting the Red Peppers Makes a Difference

One of the defining features of this recipe is the process of roasting the red peppers. Roasting peppers intensifies their natural sweetness and imparts a smoky flavor that transforms the dip. By exposing the peppers to high heat, the skin becomes charred and blackened, which adds a layer of complexity to the flavor.

Furthermore, roasting peppers unlocks more of their nutrients, such as lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. The caramelization of the sugars in the peppers during roasting also contributes to the dip’s richness and depth of flavor.

If you’re in a hurry or don’t want to roast your peppers, you can use jarred roasted red peppers instead. However, nothing beats the flavor and health benefits of freshly roasted peppers.

How to Make the Perfect Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

While the recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is quite simple, there are a few tips to ensure that you achieve the creamiest, most flavorful dip:

• Use freshly roasted peppers: Roasting your own red peppers may take a little extra time, but it’s worth it for the smoky flavor it adds. Simply place whole peppers under the broiler or on the grill until the skin is blackened and blistered, then let them steam in a bowl to make peeling easier.

• Blend until smooth: For the best texture, use a high-quality food processor or blender to mix the hummus. The smoother the consistency, the better the final product will be. Scrape down the sides as needed and blend until it reaches a silky, creamy texture.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste the hummus as you go and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You may want to add more lemon juice for acidity, extra garlic for a stronger flavor, or more paprika for a spicier kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment until it tastes just right.

• Make it ahead of time: This hummus stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. In fact, the flavors tend to deepen after sitting for a day or two, making it a great make-ahead dish. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate.

Conclusion

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make dip that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick snack, or looking for a healthy addition to your meals, this hummus fits the bill. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s a delicious way to incorporate more nutritious foods into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

The combination of smoky roasted red peppers, creamy chickpeas, and the richness of tahini makes this hummus a standout. Whether served with vegetables, pita, or used as a spread, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes, whether you like it spicier, tangier, or milder. Best of all, it’s a great choice for anyone following a vegan, gluten-free, or vegetarian diet, making it an inclusive recipe that everyone can enjoy.

Give this recipe a try the next time you’re in need of a satisfying and nutritious snack or appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dip that’s bursting with flavor and packed with health benefits!