Bell pepper pesto is a velvety and flavorful cream, perfect for dressing pasta, enriching crostini, or accompanying main dishes. Unlike classic basil pesto, this version is sweet and delicate, thanks to the roasted peppers in the air fryer, which give an intense flavor without being heavy.
Easy, quick, and super versatile, it’s ideal for summer but you can enjoy it all year round. With a few ingredients and a mixer, you’ll prepare a creamy and irresistible pesto, perfect for a healthy taste boost.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Cheap
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: Summer, Fall
Ingredients
- 3 bell peppers, red and yellow, raw
- 1.75 oz almonds
- 1.75 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic
- to taste extra virgin olive oil
- to taste salt
Tools
- Immersion Blender
Steps
Cook the peppers in the air fryer at 392°F for 20 minutes, then leave them in the turned-off fryer for another 20 minutes to peel them easily.
Once cold, remove the skin, seeds, and cut them into pieces.
Put the peppers in the mixer along with almonds, Parmesan cheese, a garlic clove (if you like), a few basil leaves, salt, and pepper.
Start blending by gradually adding the extra virgin olive oil until you get a smooth, creamy consistency.If the pesto seems too thick, add a drizzle of oil or a tablespoon of water to make it softer.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences.
How to Store Bell Pepper Pesto
In the fridge: Store it in a glass jar with a layer of oil on top to prevent oxidation. It lasts up to 3 days.
In the freezer: You can freeze it in small portions, preferably in ice cube trays, for up to 3 months.
Tips and Variations
Alternative nuts: Try with walnuts or cashews for a more original flavor.
Light version: Reduce the oil and add a bit of Greek yogurt for a lighter cream.
Pairings: Perfect for dressing pasta, bruschetta, flatbreads, or to accompany cheese and white meat.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use raw peppers instead of roasted?It’s better not to. Raw peppers don’t provide the same sweetness and creaminess as pesto made with roasted ones.
Do I have to add garlic?
No, garlic is optional. If you want a more delicate taste, you can skip it.
Can it be made without Parmesan?
Yes, for a vegan or lactose-free version, you can use nutritional yeast flakes or omit the cheese entirely.
