Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Bread is a vibrant, creamy, and flavorful twist on classic hummus. Blending roasted red peppers with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this hummus offers a sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor that’s irresistible. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with warm, soft pita bread, making it a perfect appetizer, snack, or party dish.

Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients like plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The roasted red peppers provide a natural sweetness and stunning color, elevating any snack table with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s bright, flavorful, and versatile. The sweetness and smokiness from roasted red peppers elevate the classic hummus, making it both visually appealing and delicious.

It’s a go-to for gatherings because it pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, pita, or crackers. Homemade hummus also allows for customization — adjusting spice levels, adding herbs, or tweaking consistency — while remaining healthier than store-bought options.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, gourmet appetizer. The creamy hummus combined with roasted red pepper offers bold flavor and a beautiful presentation.

It’s perfect for entertaining, as a midday snack, or a light meal. It’s also suitable for a variety of diets — vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free (with gluten-free pita), and naturally wholesome.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for roasting peppers)
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: ~180 kcal per serving
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Side
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / Middle Eastern

Ingredients

For the Hummus:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas)
• 2 medium red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
• ¼ cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2–4 tablespoons water (for desired consistency)
• Optional garnish: smoked paprika, chopped parsley, or toasted pine nuts

For Serving:

• 4–6 pieces pita bread, warmed
• Optional: fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumber, bell peppers)

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Roast the Red Peppers

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Place whole red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered.
3. Transfer peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes.
4. Peel off skins, remove seeds, and roughly chop.

Step 2: Blend the Hummus

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping sides as necessary.
3. Gradually add olive oil and water until desired creamy consistency is reached.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

• Transfer hummus to a serving bowl.
• Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle smoked paprika, parsley, or toasted pine nuts if desired.
• Serve with warm pita bread or vegetable sticks.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Roast Peppers: Char red peppers in the oven, steam, peel, deseed, and chop.
2. Prepare Chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas.
3. Blend Ingredients: Combine chickpeas, roasted red peppers, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and salt. Process until smooth.
4. Adjust Texture: Gradually add olive oil and water to achieve creamy consistency.
5. Plate & Garnish: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle paprika, parsley, or nuts. Serve with pita bread.

How to Serve

• As an appetizer with warm pita or crackers.
• With fresh vegetable sticks for a healthy snack.
• Spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor.
• As part of a Mediterranean mezze platter alongside olives, feta, and grape leaves.

Recipe Tips

• Smooth Hummus: Peel chickpeas before blending for ultra-creamy texture.
• Roast Peppers Quickly: Use a gas stove or broiler for faster charring.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Consistency: Adjust water or olive oil gradually for desired creaminess.
• Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge; flavor develops over a few hours.

Variations

• Spicy Red Pepper Hummus: Add a small red chili or cayenne pepper to the blender.
• Herbed Hummus: Mix in fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley for extra freshness.
• Nutty Twist: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds.
• Garlic Lovers: Roast extra garlic with peppers for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Version: Substitute half the roasted peppers with sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy variation.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5–7 days.
• Freezing: Freeze hummus for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Tip: Garnish with olive oil and paprika only before serving, not before storing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Oven or broiler for roasting peppers
• Food processor or high-speed blender
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowl and spatula

FAQ

Q: Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
A: Yes, for convenience. Just drain and rinse to reduce excess liquid.

Q: Can I make this hummus ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare and refrigerate. Serve within 5–7 days for best flavor.

Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free (with gluten-free pita).

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add red chili flakes, cayenne, or fresh chili to the hummus.

Q: Can I store hummus in the freezer?
A: Yes, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Bread is a vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious dish perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a side. The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers combined with creamy chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil makes it irresistible.

Easy to make and visually stunning, this hummus is versatile and customizable, perfect for any occasion — from casual lunches to elegant gatherings. Pair it with pita, fresh vegetables, or use as a spread, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing, healthy dish everyone will love.