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Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip

This robust red-pepper dip is based on muhammara, a Middle Eastern specialty whose name describes its brick-red color. For best results, make it a day ahead to let the flavors blend. Serve with toasted pita wedges or crudités.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    makes 2 1/4 cups

Ingredients

3 red bell peppers (about 1 pound)
1 whole-wheat pita (6-inch size), toasted
1 cup water
1 small garlic clove
3/4 cup walnut pieces, toasted (page 53), plus more for garnish
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika, plus more for garnish (optional)
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Roast peppers directly over flame of a gas-stove burner on high heat, turning with tongs, until blackened all over. (Or place peppers under the broiler, turning often, until skin has charred.) Transfer peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let steam 15 minutes. Using paper towels, rub off skins, then remove stems, seeds, and ribs.

    Step 2

    Break toasted pita bread into 2-inch pieces; place in a bowl and add the water. Let soak until soft, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a sieve, and drain well, pressing out excess water.

    Step 3

    Process garlic and walnuts in a food processor until finely ground, about 10 seconds. Add paprika, cumin, the roasted peppers, and the pita bread; process until smooth, about 10 seconds. Add vinegar, lemon juice, oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); season with pepper. Pulse until combined.

    Step 4

    Transfer dip to a bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. Before serving, bring to room temperature; drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with walnuts and paprika, as desired.

  2. Nutrition Information

    Step 5

    (Per 1/4-cup serving)

    Step 6

    Calories: 111

    Step 7

    Saturated Fat: 1g

    Step 8

    Unsaturated Fat: 7.3g

    Step 9

    Cholesterol: 0mg

    Step 10

    Carbohydrates: 7.6g

    Step 11

    Protein: 2.7g

    Step 12

    Sodium: 118mg

    Step 13

    Fiber: 1.8g

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