Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Roasted Red Pepper Dip Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a delicious and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for parties or gatherings. The combination of roasted red peppers, tomato paste, and garlic creates a rich and savory dip that pairs well with crackers, bread, or vegetables.

History

The origins of Roasted Red Pepper Dip are not clear, but it is believed to have Mediterranean roots. Red peppers have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. This dip has become a popular dish at parties and events due to its vibrant color and delicious taste.

Ingredients

2 medium red sweet peppers
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp fresh thyme (or 0.25 tsp crushed and dried thyme)
0.25 tsp salt
Dash of red pepper flakes
1 clove garlic, chopped

How to prepare

Roast the peppers:
Cut the peppers into quarters and remove the stem, seeds, and membranes.
Line a baking sheet with foil. Place the peppers on the foil, skin side up, and press each segment to lie flat on the sheet.
Bake in the oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20 minutes or until the skin is blackened and blistered.
Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a paper bag. Close the bag and let them cool for 10 minutes.
Peel and discard the skins.
Place the peppers in a food processor, cover, and blend until finely chopped.
Add the tomato paste, sugar, thyme, salt, red pepper flakes, and garlic. Cover and blend until smooth.

Variations

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Mix in some feta cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.
Stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the red peppers until the skin is blackened and blistered for the best flavor.

- Let the roasted peppers cool in a paper bag to make it easier to peel off the skins.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

- For a smoother dip, blend the ingredients until completely smooth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Roasted Red Pepper Dip with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the red peppers brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to the dip.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme instead. You can also substitute the fresh garlic with garlic powder.

Make Ahead Tips

Roasted Red Pepper Dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dip with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a few extra red pepper flakes for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Roasted Red Pepper Dip with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail for a perfect appetizer pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Roasted Red Pepper Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Roasted Red Pepper Dip contains approximately 50 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Roasted Red Pepper Dip contains approximately 6 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Roasted Red Pepper Dip contains approximately 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Roasted Red Pepper Dip contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Roasted red peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a low-calorie and nutritious appetizer option that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a flavorful and nutritious appetizer that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of roasted red peppers in this delicious dip!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Dip. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sylvia's house for a ladies luncheon. Sylvia was known for her incredible culinary skills, and I always looked forward to trying her delicious creations.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of roasted red peppers. Sylvia was busy at work, carefully peeling and seeding the peppers, her hands stained a vibrant shade of red. Curious, I asked her what she was making, and she smiled and replied, "Roasted Red Pepper Dip, my dear. It's a family recipe passed down from generations."

Intrigued, I watched as Sylvia expertly blended the roasted peppers with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of cayenne pepper. The dip was then chilled in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together. When it was finally ready, Sylvia served it alongside a platter of fresh vegetables and warm pita bread.

I took my first bite of the dip and was immediately transported to flavor heaven. The sweetness of the roasted peppers balanced perfectly with the sharpness of the garlic, and the cayenne pepper added just the right amount of heat. It was a taste sensation like no other, and I knew I had to learn how to make this incredible dip for myself.

After the luncheon, I asked Sylvia for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. Over the years, I have made my own adaptations to the recipe, adding a touch of lemon juice for brightness and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor. Each time I make the Roasted Red Pepper Dip, I am instantly transported back to that warm summer day in Sylvia's kitchen, surrounded by good friends and delicious food.

As I continued to hone my cooking skills, I began to seek out new recipes and techniques from various sources. I joined a cooking club in my neighborhood, where I met a diverse group of people who shared their own family recipes and culinary traditions with me. Through these gatherings, I learned the importance of taking risks in the kitchen and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.

One day, I stumbled upon a cookbook filled with Mediterranean recipes, and my eyes lit up when I saw a recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Dip. I eagerly flipped through the pages, taking note of the ingredients and steps required to make the dip. With my newfound knowledge and experience, I knew I could put my own spin on this classic recipe.

I gathered the necessary ingredients – red bell peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cayenne pepper, and fresh herbs – and set to work in my own kitchen. I roasted the peppers until they were charred and blistered, then peeled off the skin to reveal the sweet and smoky flesh underneath. I combined the peppers with the garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper, blending everything together until smooth and creamy.

As the dip chilled in the refrigerator, I busied myself with preparing a platter of fresh vegetables and warm pita bread. When the Roasted Red Pepper Dip was finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. I scooped up a generous spoonful of the dip with a crisp carrot stick and savored the explosion of flavors on my palate.

The sweetness of the roasted peppers melded beautifully with the tangy lemon juice, while the cayenne pepper added a subtle kick of heat. The garlic added a depth of flavor that lingered on my tongue, making me want to go back for more. I was thrilled with how the recipe turned out, and I knew that this Roasted Red Pepper Dip would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

As I shared the recipe with my friends and family, they too were enchanted by the bold flavors and vibrant colors of the Roasted Red Pepper Dip. They marveled at how something so simple could be so incredibly delicious, and they asked me for the recipe so they could recreate it in their own kitchens.

I took pride in knowing that I had discovered a recipe that not only brought joy to my own taste buds but also to those of my loved ones. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to learn and grow in the kitchen.

The recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Dip holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the friendships I have forged and the memories I have created over the years. It is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting connections.

As I continue to explore new recipes and culinary adventures, I will always hold onto the memory of that warm summer day in Sylvia's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of Roasted Red Pepper Dip. It is a recipe that has brought me immense joy and satisfaction, and I look forward to sharing it with others for years to come.