Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Grilled Bell Pepper and Horseradish Sauce

This savory and smoky grilled bell pepper sauce is perfect for any grilled dish, bringing a rich combination of flavors with a creamy texture. Enjoy this simple yet delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 red bell peppers
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 ounce fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cut the red bell peppers in half, then remove and discard the stems, seeds, and membranes.

Step 3: Place the pepper halves, skin side up, directly on the preheated grill. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the skin is slightly charred.

Step 4: Flip the peppers over and char the other side for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 5: Once the peppers are sufficiently charred, remove them from the grill and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 6: In a blender, combine the grilled peppers, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, horseradish, and smoked paprika. Cover and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more horseradish for an extra kick or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Serve the sauce as a dip, or drizzle it over grilled meats, vegetables, or roasted potatoes for an added burst of flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 14g (18% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (11% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 8mg (3% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 128mg (6% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 4g (1% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 1g (2% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 41mg (45% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 17mg (1% Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (2% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 89mg (2% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origins

The roasted red pepper sauce has a humble yet flavorful origin. While it is popular in many cuisines around the world, it is especially associated with Mediterranean and American cooking. The idea of roasting vegetables to create sauces dates back to ancient times, where roasted vegetables were blended with various herbs and spices to create a rich, aromatic base for meals. Red peppers, in particular, are a favorite in Mediterranean cooking due to their sweetness and smoky flavor, which are enhanced when grilled or roasted. The addition of ingredients like mayonnaise and smoked paprika in modern recipes gives the sauce a creamy yet smoky character, making it perfect for pairing with sandwiches, burgers, and grilled meats.

Regional Variations

Roasted red pepper sauce varies significantly depending on the region. In Mediterranean countries like Spain and Italy, roasted peppers are often combined with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like basil or oregano to create a versatile dip or topping for bread. In the Middle East, similar sauces might include tahini or yogurt for added creaminess. The American version, as seen in this recipe, incorporates mayonnaise and horseradish, lending it a creamy and slightly tangy flavor. Each version of roasted red pepper sauce reflects the regional ingredients and culinary preferences, making it a dish that has evolved with local tastes.

Distinguishing Features

Compared to other similar pepper-based sauces, such as the Spanish "romesco" or Italian "piperade," the roasted red pepper sauce has a unique balance of sweet, smoky, and creamy flavors. While romesco includes nuts like almonds or hazelnuts and piperade incorporates a more complex blend of vegetables, roasted red pepper sauce remains simple and quick to prepare. Its versatility is another distinguishing feature: it can be used as a condiment for sandwiches and burgers, a dip for fries or vegetables, or even as a topping for grilled meats and pasta. The smooth texture of the sauce makes it a more refined and versatile option compared to chunkier tomato-based sauces.

Where It's Typically Served

Roasted red pepper sauce is a favorite in casual dining settings across many regions, especially in the United States and Mediterranean countries. It is commonly found in burger joints, fast-casual restaurants, and tapas bars. In the U.S., it is often served as a condiment for grilled meats, sandwiches, and fries, adding a smoky depth of flavor. In Spain and Italy, it may be paired with grilled vegetables, pasta dishes, or as part of an appetizer spread with crusty bread. Its rich, smoky flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment for any grilled dish, enhancing the overall meal with its vibrant taste.

Interesting Facts

• Red peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and maintain healthy skin.
• The practice of roasting vegetables, including peppers, over an open flame dates back centuries, a technique that imparts a smoky flavor and tender texture to the produce.
• While the recipe for roasted red pepper sauce can be traced to Mediterranean and American culinary traditions, the sauce has found its way into kitchens worldwide, becoming a popular addition to both traditional and modern dishes.
• Some variations of this sauce incorporate different types of peppers, such as yellow or green bell peppers, to create a different flavor profile or to adjust the spiciness level.

FAQ about Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Recipe

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