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Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Recipe

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3.8 from 15 reviews

This vibrant Roasted Red Pepper Pesto is a flavorful twist on traditional pesto, combining smoky roasted red peppers with fresh basil and toasted walnuts. Perfect as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for vegetables, it’s quick to make and packed with savory, nutty flavors.

Ingredients

Roasted Red Pepper Pesto Ingredients

  • 1 (16 oz jar) roasted red peppers, rinsed and drained (about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup roasted walnuts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse and drain the jarred roasted red peppers to remove excess liquid. Mince the garlic cloves and pack fresh basil leaves for blending.
  2. Blend Pesto Base: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, basil leaves, minced garlic, roasted walnuts, olive oil, and salt. Blend until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth, creating a vibrant pesto base.
  3. Add Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the blender and pulse for about 10 seconds to just incorporate the cheese without over-blending, maintaining a creamy texture with bits of cheese throughout.
  4. Adjust and Store: Taste the pesto and add additional salt if needed for flavor balance. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. It can be served immediately or chilled for enhanced flavor.

Notes

  • Use roasted walnuts to add a deep, toasty flavor; if unavailable, substitute with toasted pecans or pine nuts for a different twist.
  • If you prefer a thinner pesto, add a little more olive oil while blending to achieve desired consistency.
  • Store leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week; drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to maintain freshness and prevent oxidation.
  • This pesto is excellent as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for fresh vegetables.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/roasted-red-pepper-pesto-recipe/