Roasted Red Pepper Swirl Pizza Sauce

Elevate your pizza night with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Swirl Pizza Sauce! Forget bland, store-bought sauces – this homemade version is bursting with smoky sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Roasting the red peppers deepens their flavor, creating a sauce that’s both complex and incredibly satisfying. The swirl of fresh basil-garlic oil adds a touch of elegance and herbaceousness that will impress your family and friends. This isn’t just a pizza sauce; it’s a culinary experience!

Ingredients for Roasted Red Pepper Swirl Pizza Sauce

• 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes: Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes – San Marzano are a fantastic choice if you can find them – as they form the base of our sauce. The quality of the tomatoes significantly impacts the final flavor.
• 200 g (7 oz) roasted red bell pepper purée (about 2 large roasted red peppers, peeled and blended): Roasting the red peppers is key to unlocking their sweetness and smoky flavor. You’ll need approximately two large red bell peppers, roasted until the skin is blackened and blistered, then peeled, seeded, and blended into a smooth purée. A splash of water helps with blending.
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, plus 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra for garnish: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. The initial 2 tablespoons are used for sautéing the aromatics, while the extra 2 tablespoons are reserved for the basil-garlic drizzle.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (≈150 g / 5 oz): A finely diced onion provides a foundational savory note to the sauce. Ensure it’s diced small enough to melt into the sauce during simmering.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced, divided: Garlic is essential for a flavorful sauce. We’ll use 2 cloves during the sauce’s initial cooking and reserve 1 clove for the basil-garlic drizzle.
• 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky depth that complements the roasted red peppers beautifully.
• 1 tsp (5 g) dried oregano: Dried oregano provides a classic Italian herb flavor.
• 1 tsp (5 g) dried basil: Similar to oregano, dried basil contributes to the traditional pizza sauce profile.
• 1 tsp (5 g) granulated sugar: A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor. Adjust to your preference.
• ½ tsp (2.5 g) salt, or to taste: Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your liking.
• ¼ tsp (1.25 g) freshly ground black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and complexity.
• 5 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish: Fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note to the sauce and the drizzle.

Optional Substitutions

Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika will work in a pinch, though the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can pass it through a food mill after simmering. For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other spices.

Crafting the Perfect Swirl: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roasted Red Peppers: Begin by preheating your oven’s broiler. Place the whole red peppers directly on a baking sheet. Broil, rotating them every few minutes, until the skins are completely blackened and blistered – this usually takes around 10 minutes. Don’t worry about charring them excessively; this is key to developing that deep, smoky flavor. Immediately transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap. This steaming process loosens the skins, making them easier to peel. Let them sit for 5 minutes.
2. Peel, Seed, and Purée the Peppers: After steaming, carefully peel off the blackened skins. Remove the stems and seeds. Place the peeled pepper flesh into a blender or food processor. Add a splash of water (about a tablespoon) to help it blend smoothly. Blend until you achieve a completely smooth purée. Set this vibrant red purée aside; it’s the heart of our sauce.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and softened. This builds a foundational flavor base. Add the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for just 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
4. Bloom the Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, and granulated sugar. This is where the magic happens! Cook the spices for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This process, known as “blooming,” releases their essential oils and intensifies their aroma and flavor.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and the prepared roasted red pepper purée to the saucepan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency.
6. Season and Adjust: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more sugar, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
7. Prepare the Basil-Garlic Drizzle: While the sauce simmers, create the vibrant basil-garlic drizzle. In a small food processor, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the remaining minced garlic clove, and the 5 fresh basil leaves. Pulse until the mixture forms a bright green, smooth oil. Transfer the drizzle to a small squeeze bottle for easy application.
8. Plate and Swirl: Ladle the warm pizza sauce into a shallow serving bowl. Drizzle a thin line of the basil-garlic oil across the surface of the sauce. Using a skewer or the back of a spoon, gently swirl the oil into the sauce, creating a beautiful green-gold ribbon effect.
9. Garnish and Serve: Finish with a scattering of torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite pizza dough, crusts, or as a delicious dipping sauce.

Why Roasting Red Peppers Elevates the Flavor

Roasting red peppers isn’t just about softening them; it’s a flavor transformation. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the peppers, creating a deep, smoky sweetness that canned or raw peppers simply can’t match. This roasting process is the cornerstone of this sauce, providing a complex flavor profile that sets it apart from standard tomato-based sauces. The charring also adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness and acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a more nuanced and satisfying sauce.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

The texture of your Roasted Red Pepper Swirl Pizza Sauce is crucial. For a silky-smooth sauce, ensure your roasted red pepper purée is completely free of any skin fragments. A high-speed blender is your best friend here. If you prefer a slightly chunkier sauce, you can reduce the blending time or even leave a small amount of tomato texture intact. Remember to simmer the sauce uncovered to allow excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, more concentrated flavor.

Variations and Customization

Feel free to experiment with this recipe to create your own signature sauce! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the spice blooming stage. If you enjoy a more herbaceous flavor, incorporate a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during simmering. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer, more intense tomato flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the sauce to your personal preferences.

Serving Suggestions Beyond Pizza

While this sauce is phenomenal on pizza, its versatility extends far beyond. Use it as a dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, or even grilled chicken. It’s also a fantastic base for pasta sauces – simply add some cooked pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Consider using it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, or as a flavorful accompaniment to roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use jarred roasted red peppers? While convenient, jarred peppers often lack the intense smoky flavor of freshly roasted peppers. If using jarred peppers, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to compensate.
• How long can I store leftover sauce? Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! Making the sauce a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld even further.

This Roasted Red Pepper Swirl Pizza Sauce is a game-changer! Its vibrant color, smoky flavor, and beautiful swirl make it a truly special addition to any meal. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can easily find it when you’re ready to create your own pizza masterpiece!

fan favorite pizza sauce

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• Author: Liana Brooks
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe creates a vibrant and flavorful roasted red pepper pizza sauce, offering a smoky sweetness and elegant presentation. It’s a homemade alternative to bland store-bought sauces, perfect for elevating pizza night.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 800 g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, high-quality
• 200 g (7 oz) roasted red pepper purée (from 2 large peppers)
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, plus 2 tbsp for garnish
• 150 g (5 oz) onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced, divided
• 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika
• 1 tsp (5 g) dried oregano
• 1 tsp (5 g) dried basil
• 1 tsp (5 g) granulated sugar
• 0.5 tsp (2.5 g) salt, to taste
• 0.25 tsp (1.25 g) black pepper
• 5 fresh basil leaves, plus extra for garnish

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté diced onion in olive oil until translucent, then add garlic and cook briefly.
2. Bloom Spices: Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, basil, and sugar; cook for 1 minute.
3. Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes and red pepper purée; simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper; adjust sweetness to taste.
5. Make Drizzle: Blend olive oil, garlic, and basil until smooth.
6. Plate and Swirl: Drizzle sauce with basil-garlic oil and swirl.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

For a smoother sauce, blend the roasted red pepper purée thoroughly. Adjust sugar to balance acidity.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: pizza sauce,roasted red pepper,homemade,italian,vegetarian,easy,flavorful,smoky,basil