Roasted Red Pepper Pesto (Vegan Optional)

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Roasted Red Pepper Pesto (Vegan Optional)

Red pepper pesto (pesto calabrese) is a smoky sauce ready in less than five minutes! All you need are roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, parmesan cheese (regular or vegan), and olive oil. This recipe is perfect for pasta, pizza, sandwiches, bruschetta, and more.

Prep Time5

Course: All Day

Cuisine: Italian

Diet: Vegan

Servings: Sevings

Calories: 135kcal

Author: Ruth Grindeland

Equipment

1 Food Processor

Ingredients

2 cups roasted red peppers (16 ounce jar)*
¼ cup unsalted almonds
¼ cup Parmesan cheese/vegan parmesan cheese
1-2 cloves garlic
¼ cup olive oil
Salt to taste

Optional

¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adds spice)
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (adds flavor complexity)

Instructions

Drain the jar of red peppers. Save 1 - 2 tablespoons of the water.
Add the roasted red peppers, almonds or pine nuts, garlic, and optional red pepper flakes to a food processor. Blend while slowly streaming in olive oil or saved water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Season with salt to taste.

Notes

12 Ounce Jar Adjustment

Roasted red peppers are typically sold in 12- or 16-ounce jars. This recipe is designed for a 16-ounce jar, but if you're using a 12-ounce jar, adjust the measurements as follows:

1 ½ cups roasted red peppers (12-ounce jar)
3 tablespoons unsalted almonds
1–2 cloves garlic (same as original)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
3 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes (optional for complexity)

How to Roast Fresh Red Peppers.

If you use fresh red peppers, follow these roasting instructions. Once roasted, add them to the food processor with the other ingredients. Wash and dry two peppers. Broil on a foil-lined baking sheet for 8-10 minutes, turning until charred. Once cooled, peel off the skin, remove seeds and stem, and they’re ready for the food processor.

Storing Instructions

Store the pesto in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can freeze the pesto for up to three months. I like to freeze it in individual portions. I prefer to use Sooper Cubes or an ice cube tray.

Nutrition