If you’re looking for a vibrant, creamy dip that packs a flavorful punch, this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Bright roasted red peppers add a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the nutty creaminess of chickpeas and tahini. It’s a quick and easy recipe that transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible Mediterranean-inspired delight that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or boosting your everyday meals with a healthy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe lies in a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating a luscious, well-balanced dip. From the creamy chickpeas to the zesty lemon juice, every component adds depth in taste, texture, or color.
- Chickpeas (1 can, drained and rinsed): The creamy, protein-packed base that makes this dip wholesome and satisfying.
- Roasted red bell pepper (1 large, fresh or ½ cup jarred): Brings a smoky sweetness and vibrant color that elevates every bite.
- Tahini (¼ cup): Adds a rich, nutty flavor and silky texture that ties the hummus together beautifully.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Enhances creaminess and adds a luscious mouthfeel with subtle fruity notes.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Injects brightness and balancing acidity for a fresh, zesty finish.
- Garlic (1 clove): Gives a gentle kick that awakens all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Ground cumin (½ teaspoon): Introduces a warm earthiness that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the ingredients into perfect harmony.
- Water (1–2 tablespoons, as needed): Adjusts texture to your ideal creaminess without watering down the flavor.
- Paprika and extra olive oil (optional): For a stunning garnish that adds a hint of smoky color and gloss.
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering your chickpeas, roasted red pepper, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt, then toss them all into a food processor. This is where your hummus begins to come alive, as the vibrant roasted red pepper infuses the mixture with its signature smoky sweetness.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth and Creamy
Pulse everything together until you get a smooth, creamy texture. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides to make sure no chunk is left behind. If you find the mixture too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time to achieve the perfect dip consistency—you want it to be spoonable but not runny.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Once blended, don’t skip this step! Give your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe a taste and tweak it to your preference. Sometimes a little more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten all the flavors and make it truly irresistible.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your creamy, colorful hummus to a pretty bowl. Drizzle extra olive oil over the top for glossy texture and sprinkle with paprika if you love that extra smoky finish. Your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is ready to wow!
How to Serve Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes really takes this dip up a notch. Besides the traditional paprika and olive oil drizzle, try adding chopped fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, or even a few whole chickpeas on top for a rustic, inviting look that excites the eyes before the first bite.
Side Dishes
This hummus pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, crunchy fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, or as a creamy spread on sandwiches and wraps. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to Mediterranean main dishes, adding a creamy contrast to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive appetizer spread, serve this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe in a hollowed-out red bell pepper bowl or alongside a colorful veggie platter. You can also swirl in a little pesto or sprinkle za’atar on top for a fusion twist. The options are endless and so much fun to experiment with!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Keep it chilled to maintain the fresh flavors and creamy texture, and it will be ready anytime you want a quick, healthy snack.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, this hummus freezes well. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
This dip is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. After thawing, give it a good stir and add a splash of olive oil or water to refresh the creamy texture before serving.
FAQs
Can I use raw red peppers instead of roasted?
While raw red peppers can be used, roasting them brings out a wonderful smoky sweetness that really elevates this hummus. If you want that authentic flavor, it’s worth roasting your peppers, either at home or purchasing pre-roasted.
Is tahini essential in this recipe?
Tahini adds an important nutty richness and smoothness, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with a little peanut butter or even leave it out. Just know that the flavor and texture will slightly change.
Can I make this hummus spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the food processor for a spicy twist on the classic Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it a great choice for many dietary preferences and restrictions.
What’s the best way to serve this hummus at parties?
Keep it simple and accessible—serve with an assortment of dippables such as pita chips, fresh vegetable sticks, crackers, and even breadsticks. Presentation in a shallow bowl with garnishes makes it easy and inviting for guests.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe quickly becomes a trusted go-to, whether you’re hosting friends, prepping snacks for the week, or just craving something healthy and delicious. It’s unbelievably simple yet bursting with flavor and texture, a true testament to how a few quality ingredients can create something extraordinary. Give it a try today, and soon you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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
This vibrant Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a creamy and flavorful vegan dip made by blending chickpeas with roasted red bell peppers, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and warming spices. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack, it pairs beautifully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is quick to prepare, nutritious, and gluten-free, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Hummus Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 large roasted red bell pepper (or ½ cup jarred, drained)
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1–2 tablespoons water, as needed
Garnish (optional)
- Paprika
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients. In a food processor, add the drained chickpeas, roasted red pepper, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ground cumin, and salt.
- Blend Until Smooth. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Occasionally stop to scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
- Adjust Consistency. If the hummus is too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water gradually and blend again until you reach your desired creamy texture.
- Season to Taste. Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice as preferred for balance.
- Serve and Garnish. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and sprinkle paprika on top if desired. Serve immediately with pita bread, fresh veggies, or use as a spread.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This hummus is excellent served with pita, fresh vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.
- For a smokier flavor, use fire-roasted red peppers.
- Adjust garlic and cumin quantities to your taste preferences.
