Need a sauce to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further because my Roasted Red Pepper Sauce will be your next favorite sauce! Bursting with rich, smoky flavors and a touch of sweetness, this versatile sauce will transform any dish from bland to BAM! With its rich, smoky flavors and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for everything from grilled chicken to juicy sausages to your favorite veggies. It is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Let's learn how to make roasted red pepper sauce!
This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free and Vegetarian
Table of Contents
8 Reasons To Love This Recipe
Here’s why this roasted red pepper sauce is going to be your new favorite:
- It’s a flavor explosion that's simply irresistible.
- Incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with proteins and veggies.
- Super easy to make in under 5 minutes.
- Uses straightforward ingredients that are easy to find.
- Enhances any dish.
- So fresh, so bright, and so delicious.
- Perfectly low carb, if that’s what you need.
- The heat is perfectly balanced against the sour cream—so good!
Is Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Low Carb?
Yes, roasted red pepper sauce can be low carb, depending on the ingredients used. Traditional recipes typically include roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and various seasonings, which are all low in carbohydrates. However, some variations might add ingredients like sugar or high-carb thickeners. It's essential to check the recipe or nutritional information to ensure it fits within your low-carb dietary needs.
I made this recipe keeping the carb content in mind. It contains only 1 g net carbs per serving and is ideal for incorporating into your low-carb meal plan.
What Is Roasted Red Pepper Sauce?
Roasted red pepper sauce is a savory and versatile condiment made from roasted red bell peppers blended with ingredients like garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and seasonings. The peppers are typically roasted until their skins char, which enhances their natural sweetness and imparts a smoky flavor. This sauce is a tomato-free alternative to red sauces and is ideal if you're looking for a different spicy taste.
It is known for its creamy texture and vibrant red color, and it has that awesomeness of blender sauces. It adds depth and richness to a variety of dishes making it a favorite in Mediterranean and modern cuisine alike. You can use it as a dip, a marinade, or a topping for meats and vegetables, as it offers a delicious balance of sweet and deep flavors.
Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Ingredient List
Here is the list of ingredients you'll need to make roasted red pepper sauce:
- 4 cloves roasted garlic
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 cup jarred roasted red bell peppers (drained and roughly chopped)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped, optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking to switch things up or need some alternatives, here are a few simple ingredient substitutions you can use for this healthy roasted red pepper sauce:
- Roasted garlic: Add in 3 cloves garlic, minced, to a pan with 1 tablespoon of ghee, clarified butter, or olive oil. Roast fresh garlic over medium heat for 4-5 minutes or until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Olive oil: Use avocado oil instead of virgin olive oil.
- Red wine vinegar: Use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Sour cream: Use full-fat Greek yogurt or heavy cream to give it a mild flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: Use cayenne powder (⅛ teaspoon) or ¼ teaspoon of chili powder for less heat.
- Fresh basil: Use 2 teaspoons of dried basil. Add in while you are processing all of the ingredients. Be sure to let the sauce sit for 20 minutes before serving.
Additional Ingredients
Here are some tasty additions that pair well with the main ingredients of this homemade sauce:
- Lemon juice: Gives a fresh, zesty brightness.
- Capers: Introduce a tangy, briny flavor.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Crushed nuts (like almonds or walnuts): Provide a nice crunch and added texture.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: If you want the sauce to be more creamy and cheesy, add parmesan cheese to it.
Note: These ingredients are not part of the original recipe- use them to enhance or customize the recipe to your liking.
Cooking Tools Required
Here is the list of tools you'll need to make roasted red pepper sauce:
- Blender or food processor
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
How To Make Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: Complete Guide
Cooking Method
- No-cook recipe
Preparation Steps
- Drain the roasted red peppers and roughly chop.
- Add all the ingredients except the basil to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add in the fresh basil. Pulse 1-3X.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or chill in the fridge until ready to use.
Step 1: Pour olive oil into a food processor containing roasted red peppers.
Step 2: Add red bell peppers to the food processor.
Step 3: Add paprika to the food processor.
Step 4: Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Step 5: Ensure the sauce is blended to a smooth consistency.
Step 6: Pour the roasted red pepper sauce into a storage jar.
💡 My Pro Tip
For a fresh twist, roasting your peppers can elevate the flavor of your sauce! Here’s how: Place whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast at 450°F (230°C) until the skins char, about 25-30 minutes. Rotate them to ensure even charring. After roasting, place the roasted peppers in a non-plastic bowl with a lid to trap residual heat, which helps soften the skins for easy removal. Once cooled for 10-12 minutes, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and they're ready to use for a thicker sauce!
⏲️ Time-Saving Tips
- Use jarred roasted red peppers rather than making your own.
- Pre-roast garlic and store in olive oil for quick access.
- Pre-chop basil and store in an airtight container with a damp paper towel.
What To Serve With Roasted Red Pepper Sauce?
Wondering what goes with roasted red pepper sauce? This amazing sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of grilled meats and veggies, or your favorite bread, thanks to its rich flavors. Try this romesco sauce recipe with these foods:
- Pizza topping: Unlike traditional pizza sauce, which is high in carbohydrates, this sauce is a great alternative to marinara, giving it a rich and bright flavor. A low-carb dough and sauce—what else do we need?
- Pork Kabobs: The sweetness of pork pairs beautifully with the smoky-sweet notes of the roasted red pepper sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Tandoori Grilled Chicken: The bold spices of tandoori chicken are balanced by the creamy, mildly sweet profile of the 5-minute sauce, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Grilled Asparagus: The fresh, crisp texture of asparagus is complemented by this keto friendly recipe and adds a delightful depth of flavor to this simple side dish.
- Grilled Pork Chops: The juicy tenderness of pork chops is elevated with the addition of the dreamy sauce, creating a savory and satisfying meal.
- Grilled Artichokes: The fresh ingredients and earthy flavors of grilled artichokes are enhanced by the tangy sweetness of the sauce, offering a delicious twist to this vegetable side.
- Pasta: Pair this versatile roasted red pepper pasta sauce with your favorite pasta, add some fresh parmesan, and enjoy a flavorful recipe you will make again and again!
Storage And Freezing Instructions
Storage Tips
Keep your delicious sauce fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing Tips
To extend the shelf life of this homemade recipe, freeze your creamy sauces in a freezer-safe container for 3-6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and use as needed. Besides that, you can also freeze the sauce in an ice cube tray and use the cubes for sauces.
Recipe Conclusion
Discovering this Roasted Red Pepper Sauce has been a delightful journey for my family. It all started with a memorable dining experience where Spanish sausages coated in a rich roasted red pepper sauce left a lasting impression. Intrigued by its fresh, vibrant flavors, I decided to recreate it at home.
Since then, this favorite sauce has become a staple in our kitchen, complementing everything from chicken and pork to steak, shrimp, and a variety of vegetables. It's a favorite for dipping chicken tenders, adding a refreshing touch to every meal.
We'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions! Feel free to drop your comments below or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
Other Sauce Recipes
If you're looking more sauces to dip your grilled or roasted veggies and meats, check out these:
FAQs
Several factors can contribute to bitterness like over-roasting peppers, using very fruity olive oil, and adding excess vinegar.
When stored in the refrigerator, this sauce stays fresh for up to 7 days.
The spiciness depends on how much spice you add. Making your own sauce allows you to control its heat level.
This versatile sauce complements a variety of proteins such as chicken, lamb, fish, shrimp, beef, pork, and sausages. It also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like zucchini, onions, and squash.
Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 cloves roasted garlic
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 cup jarred roasted red bell peppers drained and roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh basil chopped, optional
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain the roasted red peppers and roughly chop.
- Add all the ingredients except the basil to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add in the fresh basil. Pulse 1-3X.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or chill in the fridge until ready to use.
Notes
Nutrition
“This website provides approximate nutrition data and information for convenience and as a courtesy only.”
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