ROASTED RED PEPPER DRESSING
Roasted Red Pepper Dressing is a smoky, slightly sweet and tangy dressing that enhances salads, roasted vegetables and grilled dishes. The deep, charred flavour of blended roasted red peppers pairs beautifully with balsamic vinegar and honey, creating a well-balanced taste with a hint of natural sweetness. Olive oil adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing, while salt and pepper enhance its overall depth. This vibrant dressing is incredibly versatile—it can be used as a salad dressing, sandwich spread or even a marinade for meats and tofu. With its Mediterranean-inspired flavours and simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious way to elevate your meals. Plus, with no cooking required when using pre-roasted peppers, it comes together in just minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to any dish.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Salad Dressing
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mediterranean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Spring, Summer, Fall, Picnic, Family Reunion, Potluck
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Salad Dressing
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare this roasted red pepper dressing.
- 1 tbsp roasted red pepper, blended
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 25
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat:3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber:3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 2g
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Roasted Red Pepper: If using store-bought roasted red peppers, drain excess liquid before blending. If roasting fresh peppers, char them over an open flame or under a broiler, then peel off the skin before blending.
- Blend The Base Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the blended roasted red pepper and balsamic vinegar until smooth. This ensures the acidity is evenly distributed.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to help emulsify the dressing and create a cohesive texture.
- Add The Honey And Seasonings: Stir in the honey, then add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Adjust Consistency If Needed: If the dressing is too thick, add a few drops of water or extra balsamic vinegar to loosen it up.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving. This enhances the depth of flavour by letting the ingredients meld together.
- Serve And Enjoy: Drizzle over salads, grain bowls or grilled vegetables or use as a marinade for meats and tofu.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
No cooking required
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this roasted red pepper dressing.
- Use High-Quality Balsamic Vinegar: Aged balsamic will provide a richer, smoother flavour compared to standard varieties.
- Blend For A Smoother Texture: Using a mini food processor or immersion blender helps create a silky consistency.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add an extra ¼ tsp of honey.
- Balance Acidity: If the dressing is too tangy, add a little more olive oil or a pinch of sugar to mellow it out.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dressing to sit enhances the smoky depth of the roasted red pepper.
- Store Properly: Since the dressing contains blended vegetables, refrigerate it in an airtight container and use it within a few days.
VARIATIONS
- Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Dressing: Blend in 1 tbsp Greek yoghurt or sour cream for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Spicy Red Pepper Dressing: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a mild heat. Adjust spice level based on preference.
- Garlic-Infused Dressing: Stir in ¼ tsp minced garlic for a bolder, more savoury flavour. Let it sit for 10 minutes to infuse properly.
- Herb-Infused Dressing: Mix in ½ tsp finely chopped fresh basil or oregano for a fresh Mediterranean twist.
- Vegan Alternative: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a completely plant-based version.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake or stir well before each use.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of blended roasted peppers may change when thawed.
- Serving Tip: If the dressing thickens in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and stir well before serving.