This Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Pesto Dip is a creamy and colorful treat! With zesty roasted red peppers and tangy goat cheese mixed in, it’s packed with flavor.
Serve it with crunchy veggies or chips, and watch everyone come back for more! It’s the perfect party snack that I simply can’t resist. Who can say no to cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Bell Peppers: Roasting brings out the sweetness and depth of flavor. If you can’t find fresh, jarred roasted red peppers work just fine too! You can also use other bell pepper colors for a different taste.
Goat Cheese: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re not a fan, try cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor. For a vegan option, use cashew cheese or dairy-free cream cheese.
Basil: Fresh is always best, but dried basil can be used in a pinch. Just remember, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less—about a teaspoon should do!
Pine Nuts: For a different twist, substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds. They still provide a lovely crunch, and you might already have them on hand!
How Do I Roast Peppers Perfectly?
Roasting peppers might seem tricky, but it’s actually quite simple! You want them charred for the best flavor. Here’s how:
- Preheat your broiler or grill to high heat.
- Place the whole peppers on a baking sheet or grill directly. Turn them every few minutes until the skin is evenly blackened, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once charred, place the peppers in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. This steaming process helps peel off the skin easily.
- After 10 minutes, peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and they’re ready to chop!
Enjoy this fun and tasty dip! Don’t forget to keep it simple and adjust flavors to your liking. Happy dipping!
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Pesto Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (toasted)
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including roasting the peppers. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for parties or just a casual gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Peppers:
Start by preheating your broiler or grill. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet, then roast or grill them while turning occasionally. You want the skin to get nice and charred—this helps give the dip that smoky flavor. This step will take about 10-15 minutes.
2. Steam and Peel:
Once the peppers are charred, transfer them to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps steam the peppers and makes the skin easier to peel. After steaming, peel off the charred skins, remove the stems and seeds, and chop the peppers into smaller pieces.
3. Blend the Ingredients:
In a food processor, place the chopped roasted red peppers, softened goat cheese, fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend everything together until well combined.
4. Add Olive Oil:
While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. Continue blending until everything is smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your flavor preference!
5. Serve It Up:
Once your dip is ready, transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for a lovely finish, and garnish with some chopped herbs like parsley or basil.
6. Enjoy with Friends:
Pair the dip with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. This dip is sure to be a hit, so get ready for everyone to ask for the recipe!
Enjoy your rich, smoky, and creamy Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Pesto Dip!
Can I Use Store-Bought Roasted Peppers?
Absolutely! Using jarred roasted red peppers is a great time-saver. Just make sure to drain them well to prevent your dip from being too watery.
How Long Will the Dip Last in the Fridge?
Your Roasted Red Pepper Goat Cheese Pesto Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, as it may thicken a bit when chilled.
Can I Freeze This Dip?
While the flavor should remain delicious, the texture might change when frozen and thawed. If you want to freeze it, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving and give it a good stir!
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese or ricotta can be delicious alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese substitute!
