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    You Are Here: Home → Sauces

    Roasted Red Pepper Pesto

    March 3, 2021 | Updated April 6, 2021 by Ryan Leave a Comment

    3084 shares
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    red pepper pesto in glass jar with spoonful on floor
    roasted red pepper pesto in glass jar with spoon
    overhead shot of red pepper pesto in jar

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure.

    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.

    red pepper pesto in glass jar with spoonful on floor

    I love pesto! From kale pesto to avocado pesto to sage 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:
    • Ingredient Notes
    • Step-by-Step Photos
    • Variations
    • How to Roast Red Peppers
    • Pesto Uses
    • FAQs
    • Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
    • Other Sauce Recipes
    • Roasted Red Pepper Pesto
    roasted red pepper pesto in glass jar with spoon

    Ingredient Notes

    • Roasted red peppers - I personally just always use jarred roasted red peppers, but you can take the time to make your own if desired.
    • Walnuts - adds crunch and flavor but you can use another nut like pistachios, pine nuts or almonds.

    Step-by-Step Photos

    process shots of how to make pesto

    Add all of the ingredients except the Parmesan cheese to a blender or food processor and blend until combined. Add Parmesan and blend for another 10 seconds.

    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

    FAQs

    Is Pesto Good for You?

    Pesto is loaded in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil and walnuts. The roasted red peppers are also high in vitamins.

    Can I Use Dried Basil?

    Use fresh basil leaves to make the pesto. Never use dried basil as it tastes completely different.

    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.
    • 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.
    spoon lifting out pesto from glass jar

    Other Sauce Recipes

    • Easy Mole Sauce
    • Roasted Tomato Sauce
    • Almond Basil Pesto
    • 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.

    red pepper pesto in glass jar with spoonful on floor
    Print Recipe
    5 from 2 votes

    Roasted Red Pepper Pesto

    If you like roasted red peppers and pesto, then why not combine them with this pesto recipe that couldn't be easier to make.
    Prep Time5 mins
    Total Time5 mins
    Course: Sauce
    Cuisine: Italian
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 228kcal
    Author: Ryan Beck

    Ingredients

    • 1 (16 oz jar) roasted red peppers, rinsed and drained (about 2 cups)
    • 1 cup packed basil leaves
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • ½ cup roasted walnuts
    • 2 tablespoon olive oil
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • ½ cup Parmesan cheese

    Instructions

    • Add peppers, basil, garlic, walnuts, olive oil and to blender or food processor and blend until thoroughly combined. 
    • Add Parmesan and blend for 10 more seconds until just combined. Adjust taste with more salt if needed. Add to airtight container.

    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.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.5cup | Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 1575mg | Potassium: 293mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 900IU | Vitamin C: 107.3mg | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 1.1mg
    Did You Try This Recipe?I love seeing what you make so mention @ChiselandFork or tag #chiselandfork on Instagram and please give a star rating below!
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    Hey there! Welcome to Chisel & Fork, a blog with tasty recipes and DIY projects. I'm Ryan and here you'll find hundreds of recipes ranging from true comfort food to vegan. Oh and if you like woodworking, you might just find your next inspiration. Read More About Chisel & Fork…

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