The Ultimate Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Creamy, Flavorful & Unforgettable
Prepare to elevate your dipping game with this incredible roasted red pepper hummus! More than just a simple spread, this versatile creation serves as a fantastic foundation for sandwiches, a vibrant addition to salads, or the perfect companion for fresh vegetables and pita. Its enticing balance of sweet and smoky, with a hint of spicy warmth and an irresistibly smooth, creamy texture, makes it a true culinary delight that you’ll want to make again and again.
When I first developed this roasted red pepper hummus recipe, I knew it was something special. The flavors were so captivating that I found myself enjoying it for dinner with crackers several nights in a row – it’s *that* good! What makes this recipe truly stand out is the thoughtful combination of ingredients that work in harmony to create a rich and complex taste profile. Beyond the naturally sweet roasted red peppers, I incorporate roasted cherry tomatoes, which not only amplify the peppers’ sweetness but also introduce a crucial acidic brightness that makes all the flavors truly pop. A generous kick of harissa brings a delightful smoky heat, while the deep, mellow notes of roasted garlic add an unparalleled layer of savory sophistication. This isn’t just another hummus recipe; it’s a gourmet experience designed to impress even the most discerning palates.
Why This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Is Your New Go-To Recipe
If you’re searching for an unforgettable appetizer, a satisfying and healthy snack, or a vibrant condiment to brighten any meal, this homemade roasted red pepper hummus is the answer. It consistently delivers on flavor, texture, and versatility, checking all the boxes for a truly exceptional dish:
- Unmatched Flavor Beyond Store-Bought Brands. Forget bland, overly processed store-bought options. This recipe layers incredible flavors, beginning with the natural sweetness and smoky depth of slow-roasted red bell peppers. We then introduce roasted cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of caramelized sweetness and a hint of acidity that cuts through the richness, preventing it from tasting flat. The aromatic warmth of harissa adds a unique smoky spice (which you might recall from my Baked Carrot Fries with Harissa Tahini Dip), while roasted garlic provides an earthy, sweet foundation that raw garlic simply can’t achieve. Crafting your own hummus means you have complete control over every element, allowing you to fine-tune the tanginess, adjust the spice level, or boost the savory notes to perfectly suit your preferences.
- Incredibly Versatile for Every Meal. While hummus is traditionally cherished as a dip for warm pitas and crisp vegetables, the robust flavor of this roasted red pepper version unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. Beyond classic dipping, it shines when spread generously on veggie sandwiches and wraps, adding a creamy, flavorful layer. Scoop it into meal bowls for an instant upgrade, or thin it slightly with a touch more water or olive oil to create a zesty dressing for salads, like this refreshing Fattoush Salad. Try it as a base for flatbread pizzas, a dollop on soups, or even as a unique topping for grilled proteins.
- Perfect for Efficient Meal Prep. This roasted red pepper hummus is a dream come true for meal prepping. Its flavors meld and deepen over time, meaning it often tastes even better the day after it’s made. It keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing you to prepare a large batch and effortlessly portion it out for quick, healthy snacks and meals throughout your busy week. This convenience makes healthy eating much more accessible and enjoyable.
- Wholesome and Nourishing. Beyond its incredible taste, this hummus is packed with wholesome ingredients. Chickpeas provide a fantastic source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health. Tahini offers healthy fats and essential minerals like calcium. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and the abundance of roasted vegetables brings a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a deliciously guilt-free addition to any diet, naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Crafting this flavorful hummus starts with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, spice, and creamy texture. For precise ingredient quantities and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the detailed recipe card.
- Red Bell Peppers – These are the star of the show! Roasting red bell peppers concentrates their natural sugars, transforming them into a sweet, slightly smoky, and incredibly tender foundation for our hummus. While I prefer red for their vibrant color and superior sweetness, you can certainly use yellow or orange bell peppers, which will yield equally delicious results with subtle variations in flavor and hue.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Often overlooked in traditional hummus, roasted cherry tomatoes are a game-changer here. Roasting them causes them to caramelize and become intensely sweet, while simultaneously contributing a crucial touch of acidity. This acidity provides a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the peppers and the richness of the tahini, ensuring a balanced and vibrant flavor profile that truly pops.
- Cooked Chickpeas – The backbone of any hummus! You have options here: use good quality canned chickpeas, thoroughly rinsed and drained, or for an even creamier result, start with dried chickpeas and cook them from scratch until very tender. If you’re aiming for the absolute smoothest hummus, you can even take the extra step of peeling the chickpeas, though it’s not strictly necessary for a delicious outcome. Extra chickpeas make a lovely garnish.
- Water – Essential for achieving the desired creamy, smooth consistency. Start with the recommended amount and add more as needed to reach your preferred texture.
- Olive Oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is key here, not just for roasting the vegetables but also for its rich, fruity notes that contribute to the hummus’s luxurious mouthfeel and flavor. A final drizzle before serving adds a beautiful sheen and enhances the taste.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper – These fundamental seasonings are vital for enhancing and harmonizing all the other flavors. Adjust to taste to bring out the best in your hummus.
- Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a bright, zesty tang that elevates the entire dish, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing finish. Lemon juice can be used as a direct substitute if you prefer its specific citrus notes.
- Ground Harissa – This is where the magic of smoky heat comes in! Ground harissa, a North African spice blend, imparts a wonderfully complex flavor that is both smoky, earthy, and spicy. If you enjoy the smokiness but prefer to skip the heat, smoked paprika is an excellent alternative that will still provide a deep, resonant flavor.
- Tahini – A critical ingredient for authentic, creamy hummus. Tahini, a paste made from toasted ground sesame seeds, provides a nutty depth and helps create the characteristic smooth, emulsified texture. Opt for a good quality, runny tahini for the best results; if yours is thick or separated, stir it well before measuring. You can even try making your own tahini at home with this guide: How To Make Tahini.
- Roasted Garlic – Roasting garlic transforms it, making it incredibly sweet, mellow, and spreadable, losing its pungent bite. This contributes a profound depth of flavor that complements the other roasted ingredients beautifully. You can easily make it in the oven (see How To Roast Garlic) or even in an Air Fryer Roasted Garlic if you have one.
Simple Steps to Crafting Flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Creating this irresistible hummus at home is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these easy steps to achieve a perfectly smooth and deeply flavorful dip:
- Prepare Your Roasting Station. Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with a silicone mat or a piece of greased parchment paper. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents your vegetables from sticking, allowing them to roast evenly to golden perfection.
- Prep and Oil the Veggies. Take your red bell peppers, slice them in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the stems and seeds. Place the pepper halves cut-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Next, scatter the whole cherry tomatoes around the peppers. Drizzle everything generously with olive oil, then gently toss or rub the oil over the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated. This helps them caramelize beautifully during roasting.
- Roast to Perfection. Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and let the vegetables work their magic for about 40 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the peppers should become wonderfully tender and slightly collapsed, with their skins beginning to char in spots, while the cherry tomatoes will blister and shrivel, intensifying their sweetness. Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool completely. This cooling step is important for safety and for achieving the best final texture.
- Blend Until Velvety Smooth. Once the roasted vegetables have cooled, it’s time to bring everything together. Carefully reserve a few roasted tomatoes for garnish if desired. Add the cooled roasted red peppers along with the cooked chickpeas, water, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, lime juice, ground harissa, tahini, and roasted garlic to the bowl of a high-speed food processor or a powerful blender. Process the mixture, scraping down the sides as needed, until it becomes utterly smooth and creamy. The key to truly great hummus is patient blending, ensuring there are no remaining lumps for that desirable silky texture.
- Serve and Garnish with Flair. Scoop your freshly blended roasted red pepper hummus into an elegant serving bowl. For a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a final touch of olive oil over the top. Artfully arrange the reserved roasted cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of extra chickpeas on top. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers, such as warm pita bread, crunchy pita chips, or a colorful array of fresh vegetable sticks, and savor every delicious bite!
Expert Tips & Creative Variations for Your Hummus
Here are some valuable tips to ensure your roasted red pepper hummus turns out perfect every time, along with ideas for customizing it to your taste:
- Fine-Tune Flavors and Consistency to Your Liking. The beauty of homemade hummus lies in its customizability. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust! If you desire a tangier hummus, add a little more lime juice. For extra richness, a touch more olive oil works wonders. Craving more heat? Incorporate an extra pinch of harissa. If the texture is too thick, gradually blend in more water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preferred silky smoothness. Similarly, if it’s too thin, a few more chickpeas can help thicken it up.
- Get a Head Start with Smart Meal Prep. Save time on busy days by doing some prep work in advance. You can easily roast the red peppers, cherry tomatoes, and garlic up to 2 days ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the hummus, simply pull them out and proceed with the blending step. This simple trick makes assembling fresh hummus a breeze!
- Elevate Your Hummus with Diverse Toppings and Garnishes. While roasted tomatoes and extra chickpeas make for a beautiful and delicious garnish, feel free to unleash your creativity! Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint add brightness and color. Kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes provide a briny, umami depth. For a creamy, salty kick, crumble some Vegan Tofu Feta on top. A dash of sumac, za’atar, or chili flakes can also add an extra layer of visual appeal and flavor.
- Experiment with Pepper Varieties. While red peppers offer the sweetest profile, don’t hesitate to try other bell pepper colors. Yellow peppers will give a slightly milder, less sweet result, while orange peppers fall somewhere in between. Each will contribute a unique hue and subtle flavor variation to your hummus.
- Spice It Up (or Down). The harissa provides a moderate, smoky heat. If you love spicy food, increase the amount of harissa, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the food processor. For a milder version, reduce the harissa or swap it entirely for smoked paprika.
Creative Ways to Serve Your Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
This vibrant roasted red pepper hummus is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Beyond its traditional role as a dip, here are some delightful serving suggestions to inspire you:
- The Ultimate Mezze Platter: Create an impressive spread by serving your roasted red pepper hummus alongside other Mediterranean favorites. Think creamy Baba Ghanoush, charred Grilled Vegetables, and crispy Homemade Falafel. Add some kalamata olives, fresh cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and warm pita bread for a truly authentic experience.
- Sandwich & Wrap Enhancer: Ditch boring condiments! Use this hummus as a flavorful spread for your favorite sandwiches and wraps. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled vegetables, avocado, fresh greens, and plant-based proteins. It’s a fantastic base for a Falafel Burger, adding moisture and a burst of flavor.
- Nourishing Bowl Base: Swirl a generous dollop of hummus into your grain bowls or Buddha bowls. It acts as a creamy dressing and a flavorful binder, complementing roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, leafy greens, and various plant-based proteins.
- Salad Dressing Alternative: Thin the hummus slightly with a bit more water or olive oil and a squeeze of lime juice to create a creamy, tangy salad dressing. It’s especially delicious on Mediterranean-inspired salads or simple green salads.
- Quick & Easy Snack: Keep it simple! Serve with classic dippers like warm pita bread, crunchy Homemade Pita Chips, carrot sticks, celery, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices for a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Breakfast Boost: Spread it on toast or a bagel, then top with avocado slices, a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning, or even a fried egg (if not vegan).
- Unexpected Pizza Base: Use a thin layer of this hummus as a flavorful, healthier alternative to tomato sauce on homemade pizzas or flatbreads. Top with your favorite veggies and a sprinkle of vegan cheese.
Storing Your Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
One of the many benefits of making your own hummus is its excellent shelf life, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness for days to come or save it for later:
- Refrigerator Storage: To keep your roasted red pepper hummus fresh and flavorful, transfer it to an airtight container immediately after blending. It will happily last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For optimal freshness and to prevent it from drying out, you can also pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing the container. This creates a protective barrier that helps maintain its creamy texture and vibrant taste.
- Freezer Storage: Yes, you can freeze hummus! This is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life and ensure you always have some on hand. Spoon the hummus into a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible, or into an airtight freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer the frozen hummus to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. After thawing, give it a good stir, and if the consistency seems a bit thick, you can re-blend it with a tablespoon or two of water or olive oil to restore its original creaminess.
Discover More Delicious Hummus Recipes
If you love hummus as much as we do, you’ll be thrilled to explore these other fantastic variations and dishes:
- Perfect Homemade Hummus
- Beet Hummus
- Roasted Cauliflower Hummus
- Hummus Pasta
We hope you truly enjoy making and sharing this incredible roasted red pepper hummus, friends! If you whip up a batch, please snap a photo and tag #jessicainthekitchen on Instagram! We absolutely adore seeing your culinary creations. We’d also be incredibly grateful if you could take a moment to leave a comment below and give the recipe a well-deserved rating. Your feedback means the world to us! Thanks so much and happy dipping!
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
This roasted red pepper hummus recipe is sweet, savoury, smoky, and spicy. It’s easy to make and ready to impress!
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Ingredients
- 2-3 red bell peppers
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 150g
- 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas, 240g
- ¼ cup water, 60ml
- ¼ cup olive oil, 60ml
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt, 4.5g
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, 1g
- Juice of two limes
- 2 tablespoons ground harissa, 18g
- ¼ cup tahini, 60g
- 4 cloves roasted garlic
- Additional chickpeas, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or greased parchment paper.
- Slice the tops of the bell peppers and then in half, placing cut sides down . Also place the whole unsliced cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet. Drizzle generously with oil and rub in.
- Bake for 40 minutes until the peppers are soft and the tomatoes are shrivelled and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and allow to cook. In a food processor or a blender, add all the ingredients except the tomatoes and the extra chickpeas on top. Blend until completely smooth.
- Pour/scoop into a serving bowl. Drizzle with more olive oil and top with tomatoes and extra chickpeas. Serve with pita chips and enjoy!
Notes
- Refrigerator: You can store roasted red pepper hummus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze this hummus for later. Transfer it to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Calories: 238kcal, Carbohydrates: 21g, Protein: 6g, Fat: 16g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 370mg, Potassium: 352mg, Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 1420IU, Vitamin C: 65mg, Calcium: 51mg, Iron: 2mg
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Course: Jams, Sauces, Dips & Spreads, Snacks, spreads
Author: Jessica Hylton