Description
A flavorful and vibrant roasted red pepper pesto made with walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a hint of lemon juice. Perfect as a sauce, spread, or dip, this pesto is roasted to bring out the sweetness of the peppers and blended to a smooth, creamy texture with olive oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Ingredients
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 1/3 cup walnuts (or pine nuts)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
Instructions
- Roast the Peppers: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until charred on all sides. Transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and set aside.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, add the roasted peppers, walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture begins to blend into a smooth consistency.
- Add Olive Oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending until the pesto is smooth, creamy, and well combined.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Pulse briefly to incorporate the seasonings evenly into the pesto.
- Serve or Store: Use the roasted red pepper pesto immediately as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Roasting the peppers enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to the pesto.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pine nuts or almonds based on preference.
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
- The pesto can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before use.
- Adjust lemon juice and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
