Roasted Red Pepper Pesto

If you like roasted red peppers and pesto, then why not combine them with this tasty roasted red pepper pesto recipe that couldn't be easier to make.

I love pesto! From kale pesto to avocado pesto.

It's just one of those sauces that goes great with a ton of different dishes. I'm always on the lookout for new pesto ideas. Until recently, I feel like most people just have had traditional pesto, which is basil, pine nuts, olive oil Parmesan.

But people are now just starting to realize how many different ways you can make pesto and it doesn't have to be those specific ingredients. Well, just recently I came across a red pepper pesto on Pinterest so I thought I'd try my own.

One thing about pesto is if you're buying a jar at the store, it can be a little pricey compared to other sauces. Now buying the ingredients and making yourself still costs some money, but it makes so much more than what's in a jar. Plus it couldn't be easier to make.

Now let me make one thing clear, you have to like roasted red peppers to enjoy this version of pesto. So if you're not a fan, just move along!

This homemade pesto would go great with a pasta dish or even a veggie skillet bake. Go give it a try!

Jump to:

• Recipe Ingredients
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Variations
• How to Roast Red Peppers
• Pesto Uses
• How Long Will Pesto Last
• Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
• Other Sauce Recipes
• Roasted Red Pepper Pesto

Recipe Ingredients

• Roasted red peppers - the star of the show.
• Basil - adds some freshness to the homemade pesto.
• Garlic - can't have pesto without garlic.
• Walnuts - adds crunch and flavor.
• Olive oil - helps create a more sauce-like consistency.
• Salt - enhances the flavor.
• Parmesan - adds a nutty taste to the pesto.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add all of the ingredients except the Parmesan cheese to a blender or food processor.
2. Blend everything until thoroughly combined. 
3. Add Parmesan and blend for 10 more seconds or until just combined. Adjust taste with more salt if needed.

Variations

The main ingredients in this pesto are red peppers, walnuts, basil, garlic, olive oil and Parmesan. However you can really mix and match the type of greens or nuts you use.

Herbs/Greens to Use: Basil, Parsley, Cilantro, Mint, Rosemary, Spinach, Arugula, Kale

Nuts/Seeds to Use: Pine Nuts, Pistachios, Pecans, Almonds, Walnuts

How to Roast Red Peppers

While it is much easier to just buy a glass jar of roasted red peppers, you can roast them yourself as well.

The key is to roast at 500°F for about 40 minutes, or until the skin is charred. Then cover tightly in a bowl with plastic wrap for about 10 minutes, so it steams and softens the peppers.

Once cool, remove the stems and seeds and slice or dice them.

Pesto Uses

I mentioned before, but this sauce is super versatile. Some of the different ways to use it include:

• Sauce for pasta
• Pizza sauce
• Spread on a sandwich
• Top or stuff in protein like chicken or steak
• Bruschetta
• Dip for crackers

How Long Will Pesto Last

If stored in an air-tight container in the fridge, it will last a week. You can also place in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips/Recipe Notes

• Rinse and drain the roasted red peppers, or you will have a more soupy pesto.
• Use fresh basil leaves to make the pesto. Never use dried basil as it tastes completely different.
• Toast the walnuts which adds a rich, roasted flavor to the pesto.
• Salt is important as it helps break down the basil leaves while also enhancing the flavor.
• Use quality olive oil as it contributes to the taste of this almond basil pesto.
• Add the Parmesan last so you don't overblend it.

Other Sauce Recipes

• Almond Basil Pesto
• Roasted Tomato Sauce
• Sage Pesto
• Basil Pistachio Sauce
• Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

If you’ve tried this red pepper pesto or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.