Name: Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 large roasted red bell pepper, peeled and seeded; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 garlic clove; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency); 4 pita breads; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pita chips); Salt and pepper to taste (for pita chips)

This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips is a flavorful and creamy dip that elevates the traditional hummus experience with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers. Paired with crispy, oven-baked pita chips, it’s a perfect appetizer or snack for gatherings, lunchboxes, or healthy snacking at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Roasted red pepper hummus brings together the earthy richness of chickpeas, the nutty depth of tahini, and the vibrant taste of roasted red peppers. The addition of garlic, lemon, and olive oil adds layers of tang and creaminess. When served with crisp, golden-brown pita chips, it becomes a wholesome, satisfying dish that’s suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and dairy-free diets. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and tastes even better when prepared ahead of time.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chickpeas
Roasted red bell peppers
Tahini
Fresh lemon juice
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Ground cumin
Salt
Paprika (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the pita chips:

Pita bread
Olive oil
Salt
Garlic powder or za’atar (optional, for extra flavor)

directions

Prepare the roasted red peppers: If not using jarred roasted red peppers, roast fresh red bell peppers over an open flame or in the oven until the skin is blackened. Place in a covered bowl or sealed bag for 10 minutes, then peel off the charred skin and remove seeds.
Make the hummus: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Process until smooth.
Adjust texture: Add olive oil while processing to achieve a creamy consistency. If needed, add a little cold water for a lighter texture.
Taste and season: Adjust seasoning to your liking, adding more lemon, garlic, or salt as needed.
Prepare pita chips: Cut pita bread into triangles. Brush lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and optional seasonings, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or until golden and crisp.
Serve: Transfer hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley if desired. Serve with pita chips on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for a kick of heat.
Smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or add a drop of liquid smoke for an intensified smoky profile.
Herb-infused: Blend in fresh basil or cilantro for a herby twist.
Nutty version: Replace some of the tahini with almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor profile.
Low-fat: Reduce the olive oil and use more lemon juice or water to adjust consistency.

storage/reheating

Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pita chips can be stored in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating is not necessary for hummus, but if pita chips lose their crispness, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–4 minutes to refresh.

FAQs

What can I use instead of tahini?

You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, canned chickpeas work well. Be sure to drain and rinse them before use.

Do I need to peel the chickpeas?

Peeling is optional but recommended for a smoother hummus texture.

How long does homemade hummus last?

Homemade hummus lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Can I freeze roasted red pepper hummus?

Yes, hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

Are the pita chips gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pita bread. Traditional pita bread contains gluten.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can use a high-speed blender, though you may need to add extra liquid to help it blend smoothly.

Can I make the hummus ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight as the flavors meld.

How can I make this oil-free?

Omit the olive oil and use additional lemon juice or aquafaba (chickpea cooking water) to thin the hummus.

What else can I serve with this hummus besides pita chips?

Fresh vegetables, crackers, breadsticks, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps all pair well with this hummus.

Conclusion

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips is a vibrant, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying dish that brings flavor and versatility to your table. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunch, or simply in need of a healthy snack, this recipe offers both ease and elegance. Prepare it once, and it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.