Some recipes feel like little kitchen miracles, and this no-cook roasted red pepper sauce is one of them. It’s rich, velvety, and bursting with smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors—all without turning on the stove! Whether you need a quick pasta sauce, a vibrant dip, or a drizzle for grilled meats and veggies, this one’s a game-changer. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes—simply blend and enjoy!
- No Cooking Required: Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the stove.
- Versatile: Works as a pasta sauce, dip, sandwich spread, or salad dressing.
- Packed with Flavor: Smoky, sweet, garlicky, and creamy, all in one.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients and naturally dairy-free.
Ingredients in No-Cook Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Here’s what makes this sauce so irresistible:
Roasted Red Peppers: The star ingredient! They bring a sweet, smoky depth that makes this sauce unforgettable.
Garlic: Adds a punchy, savory kick—because everything is better with garlic.
Olive Oil: Provides richness and helps blend everything into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors with a little tangy freshness.
Almonds or Cashews: Optional, but they add a luscious, creamy texture without dairy.
Red Pepper Flakes: A little heat for those who love a spicy kick (totally adjustable!).
Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the peppers.
Instructions
Let’s make this delicious sauce in just a few simple steps:
Blend the Ingredients: Add the roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, nuts (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to a blender or food processor.
Blend Until Smooth: Pulse until you get a creamy, velvety texture. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, blend for a shorter time.
Taste & Adjust: Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed—maybe a bit more lemon for brightness or extra spice for heat.
Serve & Enjoy: Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 90
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
How to Serve No-Cook Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
- Over Pasta: Toss it with hot pasta for an effortless, flavor-packed meal.
- As a Dip: Serve with fresh veggies, crackers, or pita bread.
- On Sandwiches & Wraps: Spread it on sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
- With Grilled Meats & Veggies: Drizzle over grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables.
- As a Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a little more olive oil or water for a vibrant dressing.
Additional Tips
- Use Jarred Roasted Peppers: For the quickest version, grab a jar of roasted red peppers in water. Drain well before blending.
- Make It Creamier: If you want an ultra-rich sauce, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley can take the flavor to the next level.
- Storage Tip: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use fresh red peppers instead of roasted?
A1: You can, but roasting them enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor. If using fresh, consider charring them first.
Q2: How long does this sauce last in the fridge?
A2: It stays fresh for about a week in an airtight container.
Q3: Can I freeze this sauce?
A3: Yes! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.
Q4: Can I make this nut-free?
A4: Absolutely! Just leave out the nuts, and it’ll still be delicious.
Q5: What’s the best way to make it spicier?
A5: Add extra red pepper flakes or a small piece of fresh chili for more heat.
Q6: Can I use this as a pizza sauce?
A6: Yes! It makes an amazing alternative to traditional tomato sauce.
Q7: What if I don’t have a blender?
A7: You can mash everything with a fork for a chunkier version or use an immersion blender.
Q8: Can I add cheese to this sauce?
A8: Definitely! A sprinkle of Parmesan or feta would add extra depth and saltiness.
Q9: Is this sauce vegan?
A9: Yes, as long as you don’t add cheese or yogurt.
Q10: Can I use different types of peppers?
A10: Roasted yellow or orange bell peppers work great for a slightly different flavor!
Final Thoughts
This no-cook roasted red pepper sauce is a total lifesaver for busy days. It’s easy, delicious, and works with just about anything. Whether you drizzle it over pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip, it’s bound to become one of your go-to sauces. Give it a try, and let me know how you use it!
Print
No-Cook Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy No-Cook Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a lifesaver for busy days! Made with roasted red peppers, shallots, garlic, and fresh basil, this flavorful sauce comes together in minutes. Perfect for drizzling over pasta, chicken, or fish, it brings a smoky sweetness balanced with the brightness of basil. A healthy, homemade recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!
Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 3 shallots, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz jar roasted red peppers (packed in water, drained)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil
- Fresh cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté the shallots: Spray a small frying pan with olive oil spray. Add shallots and cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Blend the sauce: Transfer the cooked shallots and garlic to a food processor. Add the drained roasted red peppers and basil, then puree until smooth.
- Season to taste: Stir in salt and fresh cracked black pepper.
- Optional heating: If desired, simmer in a saucepan for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables for a quick and delicious meal.
- Add a splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 19
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg