Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce Recipe with Almonds and Cumin
Introduction
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce is a flavorful and versatile sauce that can be used as a dip, spread, or sauce for various dishes. It is a popular condiment in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its bold flavors and vibrant color.
History
The origins of Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce can be traced back to the Mediterranean region, where red peppers are a staple ingredient in many dishes. The sauce is believed to have been created as a way to add a burst of flavor to dishes, as well as to make use of the abundant red peppers grown in the region.
Ingredients
- 0.25 cup slivered almonds
- 1 small clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 0.25 tsp salt or to taste
- pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 x 7 oz (198 g) jar roasted red peppers, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
How to prepare
- In a food processor, combine almonds, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and crushed red pepper. Pulse until the almonds are ground.
- Add peppers, oil, and vinegar to the mixture. Process until smooth, pausing to scrape down the sides of the work bowl as needed.
- To make ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Variations
- Add a tablespoon of tahini for a creamier texture.
- Roast your own red peppers for a smokier flavor.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to drain and rinse the roasted red peppers before using them in the sauce to remove any excess liquid.
- Adjust the amount of salt and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- For a smoother sauce, you can peel the roasted red peppers before adding them to the food processor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce as a dip for pita bread or fresh vegetables, or use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It also pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe requires the use of a food processor to blend the ingredients into a smooth sauce. Make sure to pulse and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure a uniform consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have slivered almonds, you can use pine nuts or walnuts as a substitute. You can also use fresh garlic instead of crushed garlic for a stronger flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply cover the sauce and refrigerate until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the sauce with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a few whole almonds for a decorative touch. Serve the sauce in a small bowl or ramekin for easy dipping.
Pairing Recommendations
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, falafel, or roasted vegetables. It also complements Mediterranean salads and grain bowls.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the sauce for a few seconds or serve it at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 90
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Fats
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
Protein: 2g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 20%
Vitamin C: 80%
Calcium: 4%
Iron: 6%
Alergens
Contains almonds
Summary
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich sauce that is high in Vitamin C and Vitamin A. It is a good source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
Summary
Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce is a delicious and versatile sauce that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. With its bold flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients, this sauce is a healthy and tasty addition to your Mediterranean-inspired meals.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a wonderful cook, and I always loved watching her work her magic with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
On this particular day, Maria had a group of friends over for a casual lunch. As we chatted and sipped on chilled glasses of homemade lemonade, Maria was busy in the kitchen, preparing a feast fit for royalty. The tantalizing aroma of roasted red peppers filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
I watched in awe as Maria carefully peeled the charred skin off the roasted peppers, revealing their vibrant red flesh underneath. She then proceeded to blend the peppers with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and a secret blend of spices. The resulting sauce was a brilliant shade of red, with a rich and smoky flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
As Maria spooned the sauce over grilled chicken and vegetables, she explained to me that this was a traditional recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from a friend who had traveled to the Mediterranean many years ago. The sauce was versatile and could be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or even a spread for sandwiches. Maria's eyes sparkled with pride as she presented the dish to her guests, who all raved about its bold and complex flavors.
I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this incredible sauce myself. Maria graciously shared the recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks that she had picked up over the years. I carefully wrote down the ingredients and instructions in my tattered old recipe book, vowing to recreate the magic of that day in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I have made Maria's Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its bold and vibrant flavors. I have experimented with different variations, adding my own twist with additional herbs and spices, but the basic essence of the sauce remains the same.
As I stand in my kitchen now, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me closer to my friends and family, sparking joy and laughter around the dinner table. It has allowed me to connect with my roots and explore the flavors of the Mediterranean, even from thousands of miles away.
I may have learned this recipe from Maria, but it has truly become my own. With each batch I make, I feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that spans generations. And as I take a bite of a freshly grilled chicken smothered in Maria's Mediterranean Red Pepper Sauce, I can't help but smile, knowing that I am sharing a piece of my heart and soul with the world.
Categories
| Almond Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Red Wine Vinegar Recipes | Sauce Recipes |