Roasted Red Pepper Dip

We first tried this dip over the holidays and really liked the flavor, and I now keep a jar of roasted peppers on hand specifically to make this dip on short notice. It’s a good dip for parties, Bunco, or brunch and it pairs well with crackers or crudités. The base is sour cream, but the flavor comes from the garlic, peppers, and the balsamic vinegar reduction. In fifteen minutes you can have this prepared and then toss it into the refrigerator to let the flavors marry. It’s a good make-ahead dip because the flavor gets better as it sits, just give it a good stir before serving.

You can use dried basil if you can’t find any fresh, just toss it in with the peppers and oil while cooking, but I prefer the flavor of the fresh basil.

Equipment

8-inch skillet
medium plastic bowl with lid

Ingredients

2 roasted red bell peppers, drained and chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 cup light sour cream
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil, or 1 teaspoon dried (see variations)
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

1. In the skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and add the garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds.

2. Add the chopped peppers and cook for about 1 minute, then add the balsamic vinegar and cook over moderately low heat, stirring, until dry, about 12 minutes.

3. Transfer to a bowl to cool. Stir in the sour cream and basil and season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Variations

Instead of using jarred peppers, you can roast your own. Roast the peppers over a gas flame or under the broiler until charred all over. Put them in a plastic bag and let steam for 20 minutes. Remove the skins, cores, and seeds. Pat the peppers dry and chop.

To use dried basil, cook it with the peppers and vinegar.

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Source: adapted from Food & Wine