Are you looking for a quick and healthy appetizer or snack that’s bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This roasted pepper hummus recipe is a vibrant twist on a classic, perfect for those who want a delicious dip without the tahini. It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with flavor, and a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a healthy meal option. Prepare to impress your guests with this incredibly flavorful and best recipe for a delicious dip!
Ingredients:
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 large orange bell pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the bell peppers, remove the stems and seeds, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and charred.
Step 2: Peeling and Preparing the Peppers
Once the peppers are cool enough to handle, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap for 10-15 minutes. This steaming process will help loosen the skins. Peel off the skins and remove any remaining seeds and membranes. Roughly chop the roasted peppers.
Step 3: Blending the Hummus
Add the roasted peppers, chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or tortilla chips.
Tips for the Best Roasted Pepper Hummus:
- Roasting the peppers: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deeper, richer flavor. Don't skip this step!
- Chickpeas: Using canned chickpeas saves time, but if you have dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and boil them until tender before using.
- Lemon juice: The lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the peppers and chickpeas. Don't be shy with it!
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Smoked flavor: Use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke for an even smokier flavor profile.
- Herby hummus: Add a handful of fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or mint to the food processor along with the other ingredients.
- Roasted red pepper and tomato hummus: Add a cup of roasted tomatoes to the food processor for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This roasted pepper hummus is a delicious and healthy addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dip as a snack, appetizer, or even as a healthy addition to your lunch or dinner. It's a versatile and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion.