Smoky sweet hummus with charred red peppers
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8
2.5 cups
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Smoky sweet hummus with charred red peppers
★4.7(25)
Classic hummus elevated with roasted red peppers for a smoky, slightly sweet twist. The vibrant color and flavor make this a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
15m
Prep Time
20m
Cook Time
35m
Total Time
8
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Charred red peppers add natural sweetness and a beautiful coral color to traditional hummus. Roasting your own peppers gives the best smoky depth, but jarred peppers work in a pinch.
Mediterranean cooking celebrates fresh ingredients, healthy fats, and bold flavors. This recipe embodies that philosophy with ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
This version of Roasted Red Pepper Hummus has been refined through testing to ensure consistently excellent results. A well-made appetizer should make people lean forward and ask what you did. This recipe earns that reaction with a combination of texture, seasoning, and presentation that punches above its modest effort level.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt and cumin to taste
Instructions
- 1
If using fresh peppers, roast under broiler until charred on all sides, then peel and seed.
- 2
Blend tahini and lemon juice in a food processor for 1 minute until creamy.
- 3
Add garlic, roasted peppers, salt, and a pinch of cumin. Process until smooth.
- 4
Add chickpeas and 2-3 tbsp ice water. Blend 3-4 minutes until silky.
- 5
Transfer to a bowl and garnish with olive oil, paprika, and toasted pine nuts.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with crusty artisan bread for dipping
Finish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil
Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette
Arrange on a platter for easy sharing at your next gathering
Substitutions
Roasted red peppersRoasted yellow peppers
Milder, slightly sweeter flavor
TahiniGreek yogurt
Tangier and lighter but not vegan
ProsciuttoSmoked salmon or roasted mushrooms
Smoked salmon provides a different but equally luxurious protein. Thinly sliced, well-seasoned roasted mushrooms offer a savory plant-based alternative.
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Pat jarred peppers very dry with paper towels to avoid a watery hummus.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for even deeper smoky flavor.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Recipe Notes from Our Kitchen
Editor's Note
Editor's note: Presentation matters more for appetizers than almost any other course. A simple garnish of fresh herbs or a drizzle of good oil transforms the visual appeal with minimal extra effort.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (0mg) · 8 servings
Calories140
LowModerateHigh
A light, low-calorie option · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein5g
Carbohydrates7g
Fat15g
Fiber260mg
Sugar4g
Sodium2g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use jarred roasted peppers?
- Yes, drain and pat dry thoroughly for best results.
- How do I make it spicy?
- Add a roasted jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne when blending.
- Can I make this ahead?
- Most components can be prepared up to a day ahead. Store separately and assemble just before serving for the best texture and presentation. Dips and spreads often improve in flavor after a night in the fridge.
- What drinks pair well with this?
- A crisp white wine, a light lager, or sparkling water with citrus all complement most appetizers. Match the intensity of the drink to the appetizer — bold flavors can handle a fuller wine, while delicate bites pair better with something light.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
View all recipes →