Introduction
Is it possible to achieve restaurant-quality Roasted Red Pepper Hummus in under 15 minutes with minimal effort? Many assume hummus requires extensive prep or special ingredients, but this recipe challenges that notion, delivering a vibrant, subtly smoky, and irresistibly creamy dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create a truly flavorful hummus.
Recipe Card
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Ingredients List
* 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (feel free to use dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and cooked until tender for an even creamier texture)
* 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (from a jar, packed in water or oil, drained well; fresh roasted peppers can be used for extra depth)
* 1/4 cup tahini, well-stirred (for a nuttier flavor, try almond butter as a substitute)
* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (lime juice can offer a brighter, more zesty alternative)
* 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for convenience)
* 2-4 tablespoons cold water, or more as needed
* 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
* Salt and black pepper to taste
Prep Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
This recipe is approximately 30% faster than traditional homemade hummus, thanks to canned chickpeas and jarred roasted peppers.
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Pulse the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it starts to break down. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of cold water while the food processor is running, until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency. You may need to add up to 2 additional tablespoons of water. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Practical Tip: Using cold water helps achieve a lighter, fluffier texture.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Taste the hummus and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch more smoked paprika or fresh parsley for garnish.
Practical Tip: A quick taste test is crucial for balancing the flavors and achieving perfection.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approx. 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 70-90 kcal
- Total Fat: 4-6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 70-100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7-9g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 0-1g
- Protein: 2-3g
Healthy Alternatives
For a lower-fat option, reduce the tahini to 3 tablespoons, or replace half the tahini with a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and probiotics. For a vegan option, ensure your tahini is purely sesame-based. To make it low-sodium, use unsalted canned chickpeas and adjust salt to taste, or rinse canned chickpeas very thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant hummus with warm pita bread, crunchy vegetable sticks (carrot, cucumber, bell pepper), or as a spread in wraps and sandwiches. For an elegant touch, swirl the hummus with the back of a spoon to create a ridge, then fill the center with a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few whole chickpeas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining chickpeas thoroughly: Excess moisture can result in a thin, watery hummus. Ensure they are well-drained and rinsed.
- Not blending long enough: Patience is key for truly smooth hummus. Keep blending, scraping down the sides, until you achieve a silky consistency.
- Skipping cold water: Cold water helps create a lighter, creamier texture, so don’t overlook this simple step.
- Using old tahini: Tahini can separate or go rancid. Always stir it well before measuring and check its freshness for the best flavor.
Storage Tips
Store homemade Roasted Red Pepper Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to restore creaminess. This hummus is an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep or entertaining.
Conclusion
This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus recipe proves that healthy, delicious, and impressive appetizers don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and share the joy of homemade hummus with everyone!
FAQ
Q: Can I use fresh red peppers instead of jarred?
A: Yes, absolutely! Roasting your own red peppers adds an incredible depth of smoky flavor. Simply halve, deseed, and roast them until softened and slightly charred, then peel and use.
Q: My hummus is too thick. What should I do?
A: Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, while blending, until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
Q: Can I make this hummus without tahini?
A: While tahini is a traditional ingredient that gives hummus its unique richness, you can substitute it with a nut butter like almond butter. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
Q: How can I make this hummus spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a finely minced jalapeño to the mixture before blending.
Q: What can I serve this hummus with besides pita and veggies?
A: Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is fantastic as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, or even swirled into a bowl of lentil soup.
Q: Do I really need to peel the chickpeas?
A: For the absolute silkiest hummus, peeling the chickpeas is recommended. However, it’s an optional step and many people find excellent results without it, especially when using canned chickpeas and a powerful food processor.
Q: Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
A: A high-speed blender can work, but you may need to add a bit more liquid and stop to scrape down the sides more frequently to ensure a smooth, even consistency.
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Food lover & recipe creator sharing simple, protein-rich recipes for busy lives.