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.
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.
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.