Imagine a sauce so vibrant, so rich with flavor, that it can elevate even the simplest dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Our Roasted Red Bell Pepper Sauce is not just a condiment—it's a culinary adventure that brings the sun-kissed warmth of Italian kitchens directly to your plate. With just a few fresh ingredients and a simple roasting technique, you'll create a sauce that's bursting with smoky-sweet complexity that will have your family and friends begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 red bell peppers
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature will help to char the bell peppers, enhancing their flavor.
- While the oven is heating, wash the red bell peppers thoroughly under cold water. Remove the stems and seeds, then cut them into quarters. Place the pepper quarters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up.
- Peel the onion and cut it into wedges. Add the onion wedges to the baking sheet with the bell peppers.
- Peel the garlic cloves and place them whole on the baking sheet as well. Drizzle the olive oil over the peppers, onions, and garlic, ensuring everything is well coated. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bell peppers are charred and the onions are tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, turning them halfway through if necessary.
- Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the vegetables to cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle.
- Transfer the roasted peppers, onions, and garlic into a blender or food processor. Add the balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity that will balance the sweetness of the peppers.
- Blend the mixture until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- Once blended, the roasted red bell pepper sauce is ready to serve. You can use it as a pasta sauce, a dip for bread, or a topping for grilled meats and vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired sauce!
Tips
- Choose ripe, bright red bell peppers for the most intense flavor and sweetness.
- For extra depth, consider using a mix of red and yellow bell peppers.
- Don't rush the roasting process—charring brings out the peppers' natural sugars.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during roasting.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
