What You’ll Need
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup of pine nuts
- 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Roast the Red Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Roast the peppers in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the skin is charred and blistered.
Step 2: Remove the Skin and Seeds
Once the roasted red bell peppers have cooled slightly, remove them from the baking sheet and place them in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them cool completely. After they’ve cooled, peel off the skin and remove the seeds from the peppers.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red bell peppers, basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pulse the ingredients a few times to combine them, then slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while the blender is running. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Adjust the Seasonings
Taste the red pepper pesto and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add more salt, pepper, or even some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Feel free to get creative and customize the flavors to suit your taste buds.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy
Transfer the red pepper pesto to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. This will help the flavors meld together and intensify. You can use the pesto immediately, but it’s recommended to let it sit for at least a couple of hours to let the flavors develop. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy it with various dishes.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making homemade red pepper pesto, get creative and explore different ways to incorporate this delicious condiment into your meals. From pasta sauces to sandwich spreads, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy!