If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful dip that’s as easy to whip up as it is delicious, this Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe is absolutely for you. With roasted red peppers lending a sweet smokiness and a splash of lemon adding that perfect tang, this hummus is a lively twist on the classic Mediterranean staple. Whether you want a bright appetizer for your next gathering or a quick, wholesome snack after a long day, this recipe brings creamy, dreamy, and colorful goodness to your table in just minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe lies in its simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, creating a balance of creaminess, smokiness, and zest that makes the dip irresistibly good.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained: The creamy, protein-packed base that gives hummus its signature texture.
- 1/4 cup tahini: Adds a rich, nutty depth that elevates every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus a drizzle to finish, optional): Offers smoothness and a luscious mouthfeel while enhancing flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a punch of aromatic sharpness that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Infuses a warm, slightly earthy undertone that harmonizes with the peppers.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors, making the hummus truly sing.
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained: The star ingredient, lending sweetness, vibrant color, and smokiness.
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 1–2 tablespoons): Brightens the blend with a refreshing citrus kick.
- Water as needed to thin (start with 1–2 tablespoons): Adjusts the consistency to your preferred creaminess perfectly.
How to Make Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients in the Food Processor
Begin by adding your rinsed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, roasted red peppers, and freshly squeezed lemon juice into a food processor. This is where the magic starts as these simple ingredients come together to create that luscious base.
Step 2: Pulse and Then Blend Until Mostly Smooth
Pulse a few times just to combine everything, then blend on medium-high speed. You want a creamy texture that’s mostly smooth but still a tiny bit rustic, capturing the hummus’s homemade charm.
Step 3: Scrape the Sides and Adjust Consistency
Stop to scrape down the sides with a spatula to make sure everything gets blended evenly. If the mixture feels too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition until you reach your ideal creamy consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Fine-Tune Your Hummus
This is your chance to customize. Add more salt for depth, extra lemon juice for zing, or a touch more tahini if you’re craving a richer taste. This recipe is wonderfully flexible.
Step 5: Transfer and Garnish
Pour your finished Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe into a bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and if you like, sprinkle smoked paprika or fresh chopped parsley on top for that appealing pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Garnishes
Simple touches like a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or bright fresh parsley bring an inviting look and flavor boost. Toasted pine nuts or a few whole chickpeas can also add delightful texture.
Side Dishes
This hummus pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or crisp veggie sticks like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers. It’s also fabulous alongside crunchy crackers or dolloped on sandwiches for extra moisture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or as a colorful spread on crostini topped with roasted veggies. Layer it in wraps or bowls to infuse any meal with Mediterranean charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Easy Red Pepper Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days, making it an excellent make-ahead option for snacks or meals during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the hummus in a sealed container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy again. Just give it a good stir after thawing to bring back that smooth texture.
Reheating
This hummus is best served cold or at room temperature, so no need to reheat it. Simply remove it from the fridge about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted?
Fresh red peppers will give a crunchier, less smoky flavor, so roasting is key to achieving the sweet and smoky depth in this recipe. If you don’t have roasted peppers, you can roast fresh ones yourself quickly under the broiler or on a grill.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely. This Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats, making it perfect for any vegan-friendly menu.
Can I make this hummus spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some crushed red pepper flakes, or a bit of smoked paprika to spice things up while keeping the flavors balanced.
What can I substitute for tahini if I don’t have it?
If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with natural peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist, although the traditional flavor profile will change slightly.
How long does homemade hummus last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your homemade hummus will stay fresh for about five days. Always check for any off smells or separation before consuming to ensure it’s still good.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Red Pepper Hummus Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to favorites because it’s bursting with vibrant flavors and needs so little effort. Whether you’re hosting friends, packing a lunch, or just craving a healthy snack, it’s the ultimate way to brighten your day. Give it a try—you might just find your new snack obsession!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Easy Red Pepper Hummus is a bright and smoky Mediterranean dip made with creamy tahini, roasted red peppers, and tangy lemon juice. This vegan appetizer is perfect for quick weeknight snacks or gatherings, offering a flavorful, healthy option that pairs well with pita bread, fresh veggies, or as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients
Hummus Base
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus a drizzle to finish, optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 1–2 tablespoons)
- Water as needed to thin (start with 1–2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, roasted red peppers, and lemon juice to a food processor.
- Initial Blend: Pulse to combine the ingredients, then blend on medium-high until the mixture is mostly smooth.
- Adjust Texture: Stop blending and scrape down the sides. If the hummus is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time and blend until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Season to Taste: Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning by adding more salt for depth, more lemon juice for brightness, or a little extra tahini for richness.
- Serve: Transfer the hummus to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and optionally sprinkle smoked paprika or chopped parsley on top. Serve with warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, or use as a spread.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chickpeas if monitoring salt intake.
- Adjust tahini amount based on bitterness preferences; adding a pinch of sugar can balance flavors.
- For thicker hummus, reduce water; for creamier texture, increase water incrementally.
- Roasted red peppers can be homemade or store-bought but ensure they are well-drained to avoid watery hummus.
