Red Pepper Coulis
There’s something undeniably delightful about a vibrant Red Pepper Coulis. This easy-to-make sauce brings a burst of color and flavor to any dish, transforming even the simplest meals into gourmet experiences. Whether you’re looking to elevate your grilled chicken, pasta, or even a vegetable medley, this Red Pepper Coulis will become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Red Pepper Coulis is not just a sauce; it’s an explosion of flavor that can enhance countless dishes. It’s versatile enough to be used as a dipping sauce, a base for soups, or a vibrant accompaniment to your favorite proteins. The combination of roasted red bell peppers, garlic, and fresh basil creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing. Plus, it’s simple to whip up and can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect candidate for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this luscious Red Pepper Coulis, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – This will give the coulis its rich flavor and silky texture.
- 1 cup white onion, chopped – Sweet and aromatic, it forms the base of the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped – For a punch of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 2 roasted red bell peppers (about 16 ounces total), chopped – The star of the show, adding sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – To bring all the flavors together.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream – To add creaminess without overpowering the pepper flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped – A fresh note that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar – For a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the peppers.
- Vegetable stock (as needed, optional) – To adjust the consistency if desired.
Recommended Tools
To prepare your Red Pepper Coulis, gather these essential tools:
- Large skillet – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Blender or food processor – To puree the ingredients into a smooth sauce.
- Spatula – For stirring and scraping the sides of the blender.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping vegetables.
Cook Red Pepper Coulis Like This
Get ready to create a stunning Red Pepper Coulis with these straightforward steps:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Peppers
Stir in the chopped roasted red bell peppers and kosher salt. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, heavy cream, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth. If the coulis is too thick, add vegetable stock, a little at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the coulis and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt or a splash more of balsamic vinegar for extra zing.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Serve the Red Pepper Coulis warm or at room temperature. If you’re not using it right away, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
No-Store Runs Needed
One of the best things about this Red Pepper Coulis is that you likely have most of the ingredients on hand. Check your pantry and fridge for:
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Onions
- Garlic
- Roasted red bell peppers (you can use jarred or homemade)
- Kosher salt
- Fresh basil (or substitute with dried if necessary)
- Balsamic vinegar
Notes on Ingredients
Using roasted red bell peppers adds a depth of flavor to your coulis. You can roast them yourself by placing fresh peppers under the broiler until charred, or you can opt for jarred roasted peppers for convenience. The heavy cream adds a lovely richness, but you can substitute it with a non-dairy cream if you prefer a lighter version. Fresh basil is best for that vibrant flavor, but dried basil can work in a pinch.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This Red Pepper Coulis stores beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Here’s how to handle leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze for individual portions. Transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag and use within three months.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock if needed to regain the desired consistency.
Red Pepper Coulis Q&A
Can I use fresh red bell peppers instead of roasted ones?
While roasted peppers add a smoky sweetness, you can use fresh red bell peppers. Just roast them first to bring out their natural flavors, either in the oven or on the grill.
What dishes pair well with Red Pepper Coulis?
This coulis pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, pasta, or even as a base for soups. It also works great as a dip for crusty bread or fresh vegetables.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut cream for a delicious vegan version of this Red Pepper Coulis.
How can I adjust the heat level in the coulis?
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the blending process to give your coulis a spicy kick.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for quick recipes to pair with your Red Pepper Coulis, check these out:
- Easy Grilled Chicken – Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, it’s a delightful match.
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – A quick pasta dish that becomes gourmet with a drizzle of coulis.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers – Colorful and flavorful, served with this coulis, they shine.
- Easy Baked Salmon – A healthy and satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with the coulis.
Serve & Enjoy
Once you have whipped up this luscious Red Pepper Coulis, the possibilities are endless. Drizzle it over your favorite proteins, stir it into pasta, or use it as a vibrant dip for fresh vegetables. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy it, this coulis will undoubtedly become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire.
In closing, this Red Pepper Coulis is more than just a sauce; it’s a celebration of flavors that enhances every meal. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this stunning dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Red Pepper Coulis
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped roasted red bell peppers and kosher salt. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, heavy cream, fresh basil, and balsamic vinegar. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add vegetable stock until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste the coulis and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or balsamic vinegar for extra zing.
- Serve the Red Pepper Coulis warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator if not using immediately.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with plant-based cream for a vegan version.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for individual portions to use later.
