This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is creamy and smoky, perfect for snacking! Made with delicious roasted peppers and a hint of garlic, it’s a flavorful addition to any party.
Trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one bite! I like to serve it with crunchy veggies or warm pita chips—it makes for a fun appetizer that everyone loves!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Bell Peppers: These are the star of the dish, providing sweetness and depth. If you can’t find red, yellow or orange peppers will work, though they’ll be slightly different in taste.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ricotta or avocado for a unique twist.
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Both options add tanginess. Opt for dairy-free yogurt if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder is a decent substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: This optional ingredient adds richness. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free swap that adds umami flavor!
How Do You Roast and Peel Bell Peppers Smoothly?
Roasting bell peppers right brings out their sweetness and gives the dip a smoky touch. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Preheat your oven, and place the whole peppers on a baking sheet.
- Roast them for 20-25 mins until the skins blister. Keep turning for even roasting.
- To steam, cover them after roasting. This helps peel them easily!
- Once cooled, the skins should come off easily—just wipe or peel them under running water if needed.
Enjoy the easy process and delicious results—your dip will taste incredible!
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Roasted Red Pepper Dip takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes total, including roasting the peppers. It’s quick to make, and you can enjoy it right after blending!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Red Peppers:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the skins to get charred and blistered for that delicious smoky flavor!
2. Steam and Peel:
Once roasted, carefully remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl. Cover them with plastic wrap or a plate and let them steam for about 10 minutes. This helps loosen the skins, making them easy to peel off!
3. Prepare the Peppers:
After steaming, peel the skins off the peppers—these should come off easily. Remove the stems and seeds, then roughly chop the flesh. You now have your star ingredient ready!
4. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor or a blender, combine the roasted red peppers, softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt or sour cream, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, red chili flakes, and optional Parmesan cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to stop and scrape down the sides as needed!
5. Season the Dip:
Once blended, taste your dip and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the red chili flakes for extra heat if desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your beautiful dip to a serving bowl. Garnish it with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a lovely touch. Serve it with toasted pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delightful snack or appetizer!
This vibrant and flavorful roasted red pepper dip is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Jarred Roasted Red Peppers Instead?
Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers are a great time-saver. Just drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
To add more heat, try increasing the amount of red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Dip Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu, and use a plant-based yogurt. Skip the Parmesan or swap it for nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again for the best flavor and texture!