Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

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Creamy, smoky, and full of flavor, this roasted red pepper hummus is a healthy dip! This easy recipe is perfect for pita chips, sandwiches, or veggie dips. You’ll love making it a kitchen favorite.

If you’ve only ever had store-bought hummus, you’re in for a treat! Homemade hummus is fresher, more flavorful, and completely customizable. Roasted red peppers add sweetness and a smoky flavor. This makes classic hummus even better.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier than store-bought – No preservatives or artificial ingredients.

  • Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples and fresh produce.

  • Customizable – Adjust the spice level, texture, and seasoning to your preference.

  • Great for meal prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Ingredients List

To make this creamy and delicious hummus, you’ll need:

  • 1 large red bell pepper (or 2 small ones)

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • ¼ cup tahini (sesame paste)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency)

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 20 minutes (roasting peppers)

  • Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Step 1: Roast the Red Peppers

Roasting red peppers enhances their natural sweetness and adds a rich, smoky flavor.

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  • Cut the red pepper in half, remove the seeds and stem, and place it on a baking sheet, skin-side up.

  • Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is charred and blistered.

  • Remove from the oven and place the roasted peppers in a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let them steam for 5-10 minutes (this makes peeling easier).

  • Once cool, peel off the charred skin and discard it.

Shortcut: You can use jarred roasted red peppers if you’re short on time—just drain them well before blending.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

  • In a food processor, add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.

  • Add the roasted red peppers and blend until smooth.

  • If the mixture is too thick, add water (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Taste & Adjust

  • Taste the hummus and adjust the lemon juice, salt, or spices as needed.

  • If you like a stronger smoky flavor, add a little more smoked paprika.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  • Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.

  • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika or fresh parsley.

  • Serve with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Tips for the Best Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

  • Use fresh lemon juice – It gives the hummus a bright, fresh flavor.

  • Roast the garlic – For a milder taste, roast the garlic with the peppers.

  • Adjust the texture – Add more tahini for creaminess or more water for a thinner consistency.

  • Blend thoroughly – Process the hummus for at least 1-2 minutes to get a smooth texture.

Different Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations:

  • Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a roasted jalapeño.

  • Herbed Hummus – Mix in fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for extra freshness.

  • Greek-Inspired Hummus – Stir in crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.

  • Extra Creamy Hummus – Add 1-2 tablespoons Greek yogurt for a super smooth texture.

What to Serve with Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

This hummus is super versatile and pairs well with:

  • Pita bread or pita chips

  • Fresh veggies (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)

  • Crackers or toasted baguette slices

  • As a sandwich spread for wraps, burgers, or sandwiches

  • With grilled meats like chicken or lamb for a Mediterranean twist

How to Store & Freeze Hummus

Refrigerating:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

  • Stir before serving, as the olive oil may separate.

Freezing:

  • Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top.

  • Freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per 2 Tbsp Serving)

  • Calories: 90

  • Protein: 3g

  • Carbs: 7g

  • Fat: 6g

  • Fiber: 2g

This hummus is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan!

FAQs

Can I Make Hummus Without Tahini?

Yes! If you don’t have tahini, substitute with:

  • Greek yogurt for a creamy texture

  • Extra olive oil for richness

  • Sunflower seed butter for a nutty flavor

How Do I Make It Less Grainy?

For ultra-smooth hummus:

  • Remove chickpea skins by rubbing them with a paper towel.

  • Blend for at least 2 minutes in a food processor.

  • Add more olive oil or tahini for extra creaminess.

Can I Use a Blender Instead of a Food Processor?

Yes! A high-speed blender works well, but you may need to add more water to help it blend.

Why Is My Hummus Too Thick?

Simply add a little water, olive oil, or lemon juice, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach the perfect texture.

Conclusion

This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a delicious, healthy dip that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The smoky, sweet red peppers take traditional hummus to a whole new level. Whether you’re using it as a dip, spread, or side dish, it’s a great addition to any meal.