Roasted Red Pepper Purée is a simple yet flavourful blend of roasted red bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil. Its natural smokiness and subtle sweetness make it incredibly versatile. You can use it as a dip, spread, or sauce to bring vibrant flavour to your meals. Whether you’re dressing up pasta, adding depth to sandwiches, or serving it as a party appetizer, this purée is a delicious and convenient addition to your kitchen.
Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for added flavor
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cut each pepper in half lengthwise, removes seeds and membranes.
Place the halved peppers, skin side up, on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the skins are charred and the peppers are tender.
Remove the peppers from the oven and immediately transfer them to a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them steam for about 10 minutes. (This will help loosen the skin for easy peeling)
After steaming, carefully peel off the charred skin from the peppers and discard. (The skins should come off easily)
Add the roasted peppers and any juices from the bowl into a blender or food processor, with a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (if using)
Blend the peppers until smooth and creamy. If the purée is too thick, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.
Taste the purée and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Transfer the roasted red pepper purée to a bowl or jar.
Serve as a dip, spread, sauce, or added to various recipes.
Enjoy!
Notes
Flavour Enhancements: Customize the purée by blending in additional seasonings like smoked paprika, chili flakes, or fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley) for different flavor profiles.Consistency Adjustments: If the purée is too thick, blend with a small amount of olive oil or broth until you reach your desired consistency.Serving Suggestions:
Transform it into a vibrant pasta sauce or a flavorful base for soups and stews
Spread it on sandwiches, wraps, or flatbreads for added richness.
Enjoy it as a dip paired with fresh vegetables, crusty bread, or crispy crackers
Storage:
Fridge: Allow the roasted red pepper purée to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for 5-7 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, portion the purée into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3-6 months.
Thawing: To use, thaw the frozen purée in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well before serving to restore its smooth texture.
Reheating: If you prefer to serve the purée warm, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or olive oil if it thickens during storage.