Can I make this without a food processor?

A blender works in a pinch, especially a high-powered version. Mash with a fork for a chunkier dip, but for the best texture, a food processor is ideal.

Are jarred roasted peppers as good as fresh roasted?

Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers save time and deliver wonderful flavor. If you want to make it extra special, you can roast your own, but it’s not necessary for a great result.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes—this hummus is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you’re serving it with if you have dietary restrictions (stick to gluten-free dippers like veggies).

Can I adjust the thickness of the hummus?

Of course! Add more water or olive oil a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Hummus should be creamy and easy to scoop, never dry.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is the ultimate creamy, flavorful dip that takes just minutes to make and instantly upgrades any snack or meal. With its smooth, velvety texture and that irresistible hint of smoky sweetness from red bell peppers, this hummus is wonderfully satisfying and surprisingly easy to whip up—perfect for hectic weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Bright, tangy, and just the right amount of zesty, it’s the kind of recipe that proves healthy eating can be both simple and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Effortless: From start to finish, this hummus takes only about 10 minutes. No fuss, very little cleanup—just blend and enjoy.
Packed with Flavor: The roasted red peppers bring a smoky-sweet depth that’s perfectly matched by the creamy garbanzo beans and nutty tahini.
Versatile: Perfect as a dip with pita or veggies, as a spread on sandwiches, or even dolloped onto grain bowls and salads.
Healthy and Satisfying: Full of fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy fats—nothing artificial, just real ingredients you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making this amazing roasted red pepper hummus—and why each item matters:

Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas): The sturdy, creamy base. Rinse and drain for best texture and flavor.
Tahini: Adds that unmistakable nutty richness and silky smoothness to the hummus.
Garlic: Brings pungency and a sharp bite—don’t skimp! Fresh is best.
Kosher Salt: Enhances every flavor—taste and adjust after blending.
Cayenne Pepper: Adds a subtle heat that livens up the dip. Start small; you can always add more.
Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the flavors beautifully.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Gives exceptional creaminess and a rich, fruity note.
Cold Water: Helps achieve that ultra-smooth, spreadable consistency.
Roasted Red Bell Peppers: The flavor superstar! Use jarred for simplicity, or roast fresh peppers if you want an extra homemade touch.

Note: If using jarred peppers, drain them well to avoid overly thin hummus.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Extra Spicy: Toss in an additional pinch of cayenne or a touch of smoked paprika for deeper heat.
Herby Twist: Blend in fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley for a vibrant green version.
More Garlic: Love garlic? Go ahead and add another clove or two—it’s your kitchen!
Different Beans: Substitute white beans or even green peas for a fun, flavor-forward change.
No Tahini?: Try unsweetened yogurt, or simply use more olive oil for a slightly different but still creamy dip.

How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Step 1: Blend the Base

In your food processor, combine the garbanzo beans, tahini, chopped garlic, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Let this run for 3-4 minutes, stopping to scrape the sides if needed, until you get an ultra-smooth, fluffy base.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of cold water. Process again for about a minute. This is when the hummus really comes to life and starts looking creamy and luscious.

Step 3: Blend in Red Peppers

Add the roasted red bell peppers—be sure they’re roughly chopped for easier blending. Blend for another minute (or until completely smooth and uniform), scraping down the processor bowl to catch any bits of pepper.

Step 4: Adjust and Finish

Check the thickness. If it’s too thick, blend in another tablespoon of water until it’s perfectly scoopable. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt, lemon juice, or cayenne if you like.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon into a bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, and maybe dust with smoked paprika for extra color. Pair with pita, fresh vegetables, or use as a sandwich spread.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Blend Long Enough: Really let the food processor run—this is the secret to that dreamy, creamy texture.
Use Ice-Cold Water: Cold water gives hummus a lighter, fluffier consistency.
Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste at the end; ingredients like tahini or peppers can vary in salt or tang.
Roast Your Own Peppers: For a deeper, more complex flavor, roast fresh red bell peppers at home.
For even smoother hummus, peel the garbanzo beans before blending—a bit fiddly, but worth it for the creamiest dip!

How to Serve

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here’s how to make the most of it:

With Dippers

Scoop up with warm pita bread, crunchy pita chips, or a rainbow of crisp veggies (think carrots, cucumber, celery, or bell peppers).

As a Spread

Slather onto sandwiches, wraps, or toast for a burst of flavor and creamy texture.

On a Bowl

Add a dollop to salads, grain bowls, or as a topping for grilled chicken or roasted veggies.

Entertaining Platter

Serve as part of a mezze platter alongside olives, cheeses, and other dips for an eye-catching appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 5 days—just give it a quick stir before serving.

Freezing

Hummus freezes well! Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Hummus is best served cold or at room temperature. If it thickens in the fridge, simply stir in a splash of water or olive oil to loosen.

FAQs

Can I make this without a food processor?

A blender works in a pinch, especially a high-powered version. Mash with a fork for a chunkier dip, but for the best texture, a food processor is ideal.
Are jarred roasted peppers as good as fresh roasted?

Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers save time and deliver wonderful flavor. If you want to make it extra special, you can roast your own, but it’s not necessary for a great result.
Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes—this hummus is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you’re serving it with if you have dietary restrictions (stick to gluten-free dippers like veggies).
Can I adjust the thickness of the hummus?

Of course! Add more water or olive oil a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Hummus should be creamy and easy to scoop, never dry.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a breeze to prepare and brings bold, vibrant flavors to the table every time. Whether you’re looking for an irresistible snack, a healthy spread, or the star appetizer for your next get-together, this recipe checks every box. Once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought hummus the same way again—so grab those ingredients and enjoy making hummus at home!