Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe

The Creamiest Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe Ever

Creamy homemade roasted red pepper hummus beckons with its vibrant Mediterranean charm.

Smoky peppers dance through each silky spoonful, creating magic in your kitchen.

Chickpeas blend into a luxurious canvas waiting for bold flavor strokes.

Rich tahini whispers nutty undertones against the sweet, charred pepper backdrop.

Garlic adds a subtle punch that makes this dip irresistibly complex.

Every scoop promises a journey through rustic Mediterranean traditions and bright, sunny ingredients.

This humble spread turns simple moments into memorable culinary adventures.

Grab a pita and let the deliciousness begin!

Why Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Brings The Heat And Creaminess

  • Quickly Roast and Transform: Easily elevate humble chickpeas into a gourmet dip by roasting your own red peppers, which adds a smoky depth and restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the hummus to your taste preferences by adjusting spices, adding extra lemon juice, or experimenting with toppings like sesame seeds or fresh herbs for a personalized touch.
  • Minimal Kitchen Effort: Requires basic kitchen tools like a food processor or blender, and simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy home cooks seeking a delicious, nutritious snack or appetizer.
  • Healthy Party Pleaser: Packed with protein from chickpeas and rich in flavor, this hummus is a crowd-friendly option for gatherings, game nights, or casual entertaining that appeals to various dietary preferences.

Ingredients To Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Base Ingredients:
  • Chickpeas: Creamy protein base for classic hummus texture, canned or freshly cooked work well.
  • Red Bell Pepper: Sweet, smoky flavor enhancer with vibrant color, fresh or jarred options available.
  • Tahini: Nutty sesame seed paste providing rich, authentic Middle Eastern hummus character.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Sharp, pungent ingredient adding depth and traditional hummus zest.
  • Lemon Juice: Bright, tangy component balancing overall flavor profile.
  • Olive Oil: Smooth, rich liquid helping blend ingredients and create creamy consistency.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cumin: Warm, earthy spice contributing traditional Middle Eastern undertone.
  • Smoked Paprika: Subtle smoky flavor complementing roasted pepper notes.
  • Salt: Essential seasoning bringing out ingredient flavors.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Optional spicy element for heat lovers.
Garnish Options:
  • Sesame Seeds: Crunchy topping adding subtle nutty texture.
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional green herb for fresh visual appeal and light herbal accent.

How To Blend Up Hummus In Minutes

Step 1: Transform Fresh Pepper Into Roasted Delight

Bring your oven to a blazing 450F (230C) temperature. Take a vibrant red bell pepper and slice it in half, carefully removing all seeds. Position the pepper halves cut-side down on a sturdy baking sheet. Let the pepper roast for 20-25 minutes until the skin develops a beautiful charred appearance. Once done, transfer the pepper to a bowl and cover it tightly. Allow the pepper to steam for 10 minutes, which helps loosen the skin. Gently peel away the charred skin, revealing the soft, sweet roasted pepper underneath.

Step 2: Blend Creamy Hummus Magic

Grab your food processor or blender and prepare for deliciousness. Add these ingredients:
  • Tender chickpeas
  • Roasted red pepper
  • Smooth tahini
  • Rich olive oil
  • Zesty garlic
  • Bright lemon juice
  • Warm cumin
  • Smoky paprika
  • Sea salt
  • Spicy cayenne (optional)

Pulse and blend for about 30 seconds. Slowly introduce reserved chickpea liquid or water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture transforms into a silky, creamy texture.

Step 3: Elevate and Serve With Flair

Take a moment to taste your creation. Feel free to adjust the flavors by adding more lemon juice, salt, or spices to match your preference. Transfer the hummus to a stunning serving bowl. Drizzle with a swirl of olive oil and sprinkle with optional toppings like:
  • Extra roasted pepper pieces
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh chopped parsley

Serve alongside warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, or crunchy crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Tips To Get That Silky-Smooth Dip

  • Perfectly Roast Peppers: Char the bell pepper until skin is completely blackened for maximum smoky flavor, which adds depth to your hummus.
  • Smooth Consistency Trick: Reserve chickpea liquid carefully to control thickness, adding liquid gradually for ultra-creamy texture without over-processing.
  • Spice Customization: Adjust cayenne and smoked paprika levels to match your heat preference, creating a personalized hummus experience.
  • Storage Wisdom: Refrigerate hummus in an airtight container for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify over time.
  • Dietary Flexibility: Swap tahini with sunflower seed butter for nut-free version or use low-sodium chickpeas for reduced salt options.

How To Store Hummus Without Drying Out

  • Seal the hummus in an airtight container to maximize freshness.
  • Refrigerate immediately after preparing and consume within 4-5 days for optimal taste and texture.
  • Store the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back shelf.
  • Keep the surface smooth and prevent drying by smoothing the top with a spoon and adding a thin layer of olive oil before sealing.
  • Never leave hummus at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
  • When ready to serve, give the hummus a quick stir to restore its creamy consistency and bring it close to room temperature for the best flavor.
  • If you notice any unusual smell or mold, discard the hummus immediately for food safety.

Perfect Dippers For Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

  • Pair with Crisp Mediterranean Whites: Complement the roasted pepper's smoky notes with a chilled glass of Greek Assyrtiko or Spanish Albariño, which offer bright acidity and mineral undertones that dance perfectly with the creamy hummus.
  • Match with Rustic Bread Selections: Serve alongside warm, crusty sourdough, whole wheat pita, or traditional Turkish flatbread to provide a textural contrast and absorb the hummus's rich, velvety consistency.
  • Create a Vibrant Vegetable Platter: Arrange colorful raw vegetables like cucumber spears, rainbow carrot sticks, purple radish slices, and bell pepper strips to enhance the hummus's visual appeal and provide fresh, crunchy accompaniments.
  • Explore Zesty Herb Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, mint, or za'atar spice blend on top to add brightness, complexity, and an authentic Middle Eastern touch that elevates the entire appetizer experience.

Fresh Ideas To Reinvent Hummus

  • Spicy Roasted Jalapeño Hummus: Swap roasted red peppers with fire-roasted jalapeños for a kicked-up version that brings serious heat and smoky flavor to the classic dip.
  • Mediterranean Herb Infusion Hummus: Blend in fresh basil, oregano, and mint leaves to create a vibrant, herbaceous hummus that transports your taste buds to Mediterranean coastlines.
  • Roasted Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus: Add caramelized roasted garlic cloves and chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a rich, deeply savory spread with intense umami undertones.
  • Beetroot Swirl Hummus: Mix in roasted, pureed beetroot for a stunning deep purple hummus that offers earthy sweetness and a stunning visual presentation.

Questions About Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

  • Why roast the red pepper when I can use jarred peppers?

Roasting fresh peppers intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor that jarred peppers can’t match. It only takes about 25 minutes and makes a huge difference in taste!

  • Can I make this hummus without a food processor?

While a food processor works best for creating that ultra-smooth texture, you can use a blender or even mash the ingredients with a fork. Just be prepared for a chunkier consistency if you’re not using an electric appliance.

  • How spicy is this hummus with cayenne pepper?

The cayenne adds just a subtle kick – about a mild warmth. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a tiny pinch or skip it entirely. You can always add more to taste.

  • Is this hummus good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This hummus stays fresh in the refrigerator for 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and become more complex after a day or two in the fridge.

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Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe


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4.6 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy roasted red pepper hummus elevates classic Middle Eastern dip with smoky, rich flavors. Chickpea-based perfection brings zesty Mediterranean charm to snack time, inviting you to savor each silky, spice-infused bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients:

  • 1 (15 ounces / 425 grams) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large roasted red pepper
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • 2 cloves garlic

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Liquid and Garnish:

  • 23 tablespoons reserved chickpea liquid (aquafaba) or water
  • Extra olive oil (for drizzling)
  • Chopped roasted red peppers
  • Sesame seeds or pine nuts
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro

Instructions

  1. Carefully char the red bell pepper by placing it cut-side down on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C). Roast until the skin turns deeply blackened and blistered, approximately 20-25 minutes.
  2. Remove the roasted pepper and immediately transfer to a covered bowl, allowing it to steam for 10 minutes. This process will help loosen the skin, making it easy to peel off completely.
  3. Gently remove the charred skin from the roasted pepper, revealing the soft, smoky flesh underneath. Discard the skin and seeds.
  4. Position the food processor with its blade attachment and add the drained chickpeas, roasted pepper pieces, tahini, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Pulse the mixture while gradually incorporating olive oil, creating a smooth consistency. If the mixture appears too thick, introduce reserved chickpea liquid or water, one tablespoon at a time, until achieving a creamy texture.
  6. Taste the hummus and fine-tune the seasoning, potentially adding extra lemon juice, salt, or a dash of cayenne for enhanced flavor complexity.
  7. Transfer the hummus to a serving dish, creating an artistic swirl on the surface. Embellish with a delicate drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle of sesame seeds, and chopped fresh parsley.
  8. Accompany the hummus with crisp vegetable sticks, warm pita bread, or artisanal crackers for a delightful appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • Roasting peppers intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the hummus, transforming an ordinary dip into a flavor-packed sensation.
  • Using jarred roasted red peppers can save time without sacrificing taste, making this recipe perfect for quick meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
  • Adjust the liquid carefully while blending to achieve that dreamy, silky-smooth texture that makes hummus irresistibly creamy and spreadable.
  • For a protein-packed, gluten-free option, serve with crisp vegetable sticks or homemade sweet potato chips instead of traditional pita bread.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
James Mitchell

James Mitchell

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Creation and Testing​, Fusion Cuisine​, Food Styling and Photography​, Culinary Education​

Education

Kendall College, Chicago, IL

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classic and modern cooking techniques, with a specialization in international cuisines.​

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Advanced Certificate in Gastronomy
  • Focus: In-depth studies of global food cultures, flavor profiling, and innovative recipe development.​

James Mitchell is the founder and fearless flavor explorer at Cooking Crusade. With a degree in Culinary Arts from Kendall College and advanced training in global gastronomy from The Culinary Institute of America, James has spent over a decade perfecting the art of recipe creation. 

His background includes fine dining, private cheffing, and food styling, but his true joy comes from turning big ideas into doable recipes for home cooks. Every dish he shares is a mix of creativity, culture, and a little kitchen magic, built to bring excitement back to everyday meals.

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