Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious sauce to elevate your meals? Look no further! This vibrant red pepper sauce is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that will transform your pasta dishes, grilled meats, or even a simple scrambled egg breakfast. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking essentials, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe is part of a collection of healthy meals and best recipes designed for both experienced chefs and those just starting their culinary journey. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 large red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and roughly chopped
- 1 medium red onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Add the Peppers: Add the chopped red bell peppers to the saucepan and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This is where the delicious depth of flavor develops!
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), red wine vinegar, sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are very tender.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother sauce, carefully transfer the cooked mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can skip this step. This is one of those easy recipes where you can adapt it to your taste preferences.
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Serve & Enjoy: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve warm over your favorite pasta, grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful and flavorful touch.
Tips & Variations:
- Roast the Peppers: For a deeper, smokier flavor, roast the bell peppers before adding them to the sauce. Simply toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred. Let them cool slightly before chopping and adding them to the sauce.
- Spice it Up: If you like a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add Some Herbs: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary would all be delicious additions.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce. This turns the dish into a truly delicious and comforting meal.
- Make it Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This quick and easy red pepper sauce recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy the versatility and delicious flavor! It’s a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both simple and incredibly satisfying.