Red Pepper Pesto
December 20, 2015  | 
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Start your holiday gathering by serving this festive pesto dip made from jarred roasted red peppers, almonds and a combo of spices probably already in your pantry.  If you are a cilantro fan, the flavors blend together in a vibrant mix.  If you aren't, no worries---leave it out and you won't miss a beat. Serve with an assortment of crackers, fresh baguettes or veggies. My perfect combo is little rounds of cut cucumbers.  If your guests dare to leave some leftover, use it as a spread to brighten your sandwich.

Ingredients:

12oz jar Roasted Red Peppers (drained well)

½ cup Cilantro – optional

1 Tbs Tomato Paste

1 Tsp Sherry Vinegar

2 Tsp fresh lemon juice

3 cloves minced garlic

1 ¼ tsp kosher salt

½ tsp paprika

½ tsp chili powder

¼ tsp cayenne pepper

2+ cups coarsely ground almonds
 
Preparation:

Pulse all ingredients except the almonds in a food processor.  After all is blended add almonds.  Pulse lightly.    Add more almonds as needed to create a spreadable pesto.  Best if made one day ahead.  Serve on flat bread or crackers or baguette.