Name: Roasted Red Pepper Walnut Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade); 3/4 cup toasted walnuts; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for drizzling); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika); 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for heat); Optional: 1 tsp pomegranate molasses or 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (for tang); Optional: 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (for thicker texture)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip packs a ton of flavor with just a handful of ingredients. It’s smoky from the roasted peppers, nutty from the walnuts, and perfectly seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Not only is it naturally vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also quick to make and stays fresh for days. Serve it as a dip with pita chips, a spread on sandwiches, or a flavorful topping for grilled meats or vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
Toasted walnuts
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Ground cumin
Smoked paprika or regular paprika
Salt and black pepper
Optional: red pepper flakes, pomegranate molasses, or breadcrumbs for texture and tang

Directions

Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast walnuts for 5–7 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool.
Prepare the ingredients: If using jarred peppers, drain and pat dry. If roasting at home, peel and deseed them after roasting.
Blend the dip: In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red peppers, cooled walnuts, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Adjust the flavor: Taste and add more lemon juice, salt, or spices as needed. If desired, blend in red pepper flakes for heat or breadcrumbs for a thicker texture.
Serve: Transfer to a bowl and drizzle with olive oil or garnish with chopped walnuts or fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 (as a dip or spread)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5–7 minutes (for toasting walnuts)
Total time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of harissa for heat.
Smoky Version: Use smoked paprika and grilled red peppers for deep, smoky flavor.
Tangy Twist: Add a splash of pomegranate molasses or balsamic vinegar.
Creamy Version: Blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini for a silkier texture.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for walnuts.

Storage/Reheating

Store Roasted Red Pepper Walnut Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 1 month—just thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving. No reheating is needed; serve it chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Yes, jarred peppers are convenient and work great. Just be sure to drain and dry them before blending.

How do I roast red peppers at home?

Roast whole red peppers over a gas flame or under a broiler until charred, then peel and deseed once cooled.

Do I have to toast the walnuts?

Toasting enhances the flavor and adds depth, but you can skip it in a pinch.

Is this dip vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

Can I make it without a food processor?

You can use a blender, though it may require more oil or liquid to help it blend smoothly.

What can I serve this dip with?

Pita chips, fresh veggies, crackers, toasted bread, or as a spread on wraps and sandwiches.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.

How thick should this dip be?

It should be thick enough to scoop but still creamy. Add breadcrumbs for thickness or oil/lemon juice to thin it out.

Can I use other nuts?

Yes. Almonds, cashews, or pecans can be used, but walnuts provide the most traditional flavor.

How long will it last in the fridge?

Up to 5 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving.

Conclusion

Roasted Red Pepper Walnut Dip is a flavorful, nutrient-rich spread that’s incredibly easy to make and wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a new go-to snack, this dip delivers bold taste and creamy texture in every bite. Make a batch today and discover how it can elevate everything from appetizers to main dishes.