5-Minute Romesco Sauce

Romesco sauce is a quick and flavorful Spanish sauce made with roasted red peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, toasted nuts, garlic, and smoked paprika. Perfect as a dip, spread, or drizzle, it pairs with grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, or pasta. This easy, 5-minute recipe delivers a smoky, nutty, and slightly spicy sauce using pantry staples.

Ingredients

• 12 oz jarred roasted red peppers, drained
• 14 oz canned fire-roasted tomatoes, well drained
• ¾ cup raw blanched almonds, toasted
• ¼ cup raw blanched hazelnuts, toasted (optional; can use 1 cup almonds instead)
• ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt, more to taste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½–1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1–2 garlic cloves, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tsp sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar

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Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients
   In a food processor fitted with a blade, combine all ingredients. Blend or pulse until you reach your desired consistency—smooth or slightly chunky.
2. Adjust Seasoning
   Taste and adjust salt, lemon, or red pepper flakes as needed.
3. Serve or Store
   Transfer to a jar or serving dish. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal prep
• Rich, smoky, and nutty flavor with a hint of spice
• Versatile sauce for meats, seafood, vegetables, or dips
• Uses pantry staples and roasted vegetables for bold taste

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Tips

• Toast nuts lightly to enhance their flavor and texture.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky depth.
• Blend until smooth for a sauce, or pulse lightly for a chunkier spread.
• Taste and balance acidity with lemon juice or vinegar as needed.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nuts: Swap almonds or hazelnuts with walnuts or cashews.
• Spice: Adjust red pepper flakes to increase or reduce heat.
• Herbs: Add fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Vegan Version: Fully plant-based, perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling.

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FAQs

Can I make Romesco sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.

What can I serve it with?
Perfect for grilled vegetables, roasted meats, fish, sandwiches, or as a dip for bread.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Drizzle over grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or steamed greens.
• Use as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or crostini.
• Mix with pasta for a quick, flavorful meal.