If you love creamy dips that burst with flavor and vibrant color, you are absolutely going to adore this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe. It combines the classic smoothness of traditional hummus with the sweet, smoky punch of roasted red peppers, creating a spread that’s as beautiful on the table as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or sandwich spread, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for its perfect balance of tangy lemon, earthy cumin, and rich tahini—all coming together in just minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe relies on a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients, each contributing to its unforgettable taste, creamy texture, and gorgeous color. The beauty lies in the simplicity and freshness of every item you add.
- Chickpeas: The creamy base that provides protein and a smooth texture, best when drained and rinsed.
- Roasted Red Bell Pepper: Adds a beautifully smoky sweetness and vibrant red hue that makes the hummus pop.
- Tahini: A sesame paste that brings richness and a subtle nutty undertone.
- Olive Oil: Enhances the smoothness and adds a fruity depth to the flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the spread with a zesty, fresh tang.
- Garlic: A touch of pungent warmth perfectly balancing the sweetness of peppers.
- Ground Cumin: Offers an earthy spice that rounds out the profile beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika (optional): Adds a smoky complexity and a bit of color contrast.
- Salt: Essential for tying all the flavors together and enhancing each ingredient.
- Cold Water: Used to adjust the texture to silky perfection.
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by adding your chickpeas, roasted red pepper, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika if using, and salt into a food processor or high-speed blender. This medley is where the magic begins, blending together all the flavors that make this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe truly special.
Step 2: Blend Until Mostly Smooth
Pulse and blend until the mixture becomes mostly smooth. Don’t worry if it’s not silky yet; this rough blend allows you to adjust the creaminess more precisely in the next step. It’s a critical point to make sure all ingredients break down evenly for the best texture.
Step 3: Add Cold Water Gradually
Add cold water one tablespoon at a time while blending, scraping down the sides as needed. This step ensures your hummus gets that luscious, creamy consistency that spreads beautifully and feels indulgent on the tongue without being heavy.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give your hummus a taste! Adding more lemon juice or salt at this stage lets you fine-tune the flavors exactly to your preference. This customizing step is what turns a good hummus into a great one, perfectly balancing bright, savory, and smoky notes.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe into a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil for a glossy finish, and garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or some chopped roasted red pepper for an inviting presentation.
How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a dash of smoked paprika, or even some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro can elevate the hummus’s flavor and visual appeal. These small touches make a big difference, turning your dip into a gorgeous centerpiece.
Side Dishes
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe pairs wonderfully with crunchy pita chips, fresh cut veggies like cucumber and bell peppers, or as a creamy spread inside wraps and sandwiches. It’s a versatile companion that adds a burst of flavor wherever it goes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the hummus in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or as a layered dip with toppings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts. You can also spoon it atop grain bowls for a Mediterranean flair that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead snack or appetizer you can rely on throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep the hummus longer, freezing is an option. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to one month. When thawed, the texture may be slightly different, so give it a good stir and add a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
Reheating
Hummus is generally enjoyed cold or room temperature, but if you prefer it warmed, gently heat it in short intervals in the microwave, stirring in between to prevent drying out. Adding a little olive oil while reheating keeps it creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh roasted red peppers instead of jarred ones?
Absolutely! Roasting your own red peppers at home can add a smoky depth and freshness that’s amazing. Just be sure to peel off the skin and remove seeds before blending.
Is tahini necessary for this hummus recipe?
Tahini provides that classic creamy, nutty flavor essential to authentic hummus, but if you’re allergic or don’t have any, you could try substituting with almond or sunflower seed butter for a different twist.
How can I make the hummus extra smooth?
One great tip is to peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending. It takes a little extra time, but the result is an ultra-silky texture worth the effort.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Definitely. The smoked paprika adds subtle warmth, but you can increase it or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like more heat. Taste as you go to get your perfect balance.
What are some good alternatives to serve with this hummus?
Besides pita chips and veggies, try serving it alongside grilled meats, spreading it on flatbreads, or dolloping it onto salads for a creamy, flavorful boost.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe is truly one of those kitchen wins that’s quick, easy, and endlessly versatile. I can’t recommend it enough for adding vibrant flavor and nutrition to any meal or gathering. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dip that everyone asks for again and again!
Print
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
A vibrant and creamy roasted red pepper hummus made by blending chickpeas with roasted red bell pepper, tahini, and a blend of flavorful seasonings. This easy, no-cook Mediterranean dip is perfect for serving with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients
Hummus Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 large roasted red bell pepper (jarred or homemade)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2–4 tablespoons cold water (to adjust texture)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients to Blender: Combine the chickpeas, roasted red pepper, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika if using, and salt into a food processor or high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it becomes mostly smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even blending.
- Adjust Texture with Water: Slowly add cold water one tablespoon at a time, blending between additions until the hummus reaches a creamy and silky consistency.
- Season to Taste: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more lemon juice or salt based on your preference.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped roasted red pepper if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for a delicious snack or appetizer.
Notes
- For extra-smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them in a kitchen towel before blending.
- Store the hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
