Romesco sauce, with its rich flavor and vibrant color, is a culinary gem that brings a taste of Spain right to your kitchen. This romesco sauce recipe is made with roasted red peppers, almonds and tomatoes. It’s a very versatile sauce and condiment. You can put it on pasta, grilled meats or toast. On its own, romesco makes a bold dip for chips or veggie sticks.
Making romesco sauce is a breeze. It involves a quick blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Making romesco at home allows you to customize the flavors to your liking and enjoy a fresh, preservative-free sauce bursting with flavor. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly to add a zing of Mediterranean magic to breakfast (try it on eggs), lunch, snacks and dinner.
Romesco Sauce Ingredients
- Slivered almonds: Toasted slivered almonds add a rich, nutty flavor and give a hearty texture to the sauce.
- Soft whole wheat or white bread crumbs: Bread crumbs are a thickening agent here, giving the sauce a pleasant, creamy consistency and body.
- Fire-roasted crushed tomatoes: Fire-roasted crushed tomatoes impart a smoky depth and rich umami flavor to the sauce.
- Roasted sweet red peppers: Roasted sweet red peppers contribute a sweet and smoky element, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Minced fresh parsley: This green herb adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a touch of color to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves: These infuse the sauce with a robust, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Sweet paprika: This subtle spice provides a mild, earthy spice and a vibrant red hue to the sauce.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of al l the ingredients, balancing the taste of the sauce.
- Freshly ground pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Sherry: A bit of this fortified wine adds a touch of acidity and a nuanced depth to the sauce.
- Olive oil: This aromatic fat gives the sauce a smooth, velvety texture and enriches it with a fruity, robust flavor. Choose a Spanish olive oil if you have one.
Directions
Step 1: Mix the romesco sauce.
In a food processor, pulse the slivered almonds, bread crumbs, fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, roasted sweet red peppers, minced fresh parsley, garlic cloves, sweet paprika, salt and freshly ground pepper until finely chopped. Add the sherry and process until the mixture is well blended. Continue processing while gradually adding the olive oil in a steady stream until the sauce is smooth.
Romesco Sauce Variations
- Use a different nut: Almonds are traditional, but walnuts, hazelnuts and pistachios would all make a good romesco. Swap them for some or all of the almonds.
- Add cheese: Blend in a little grated Parmesan or Manchego cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Make smoked romesco: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika for a bold smoky flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a diced Fresno chili along with the roasted red pepper for romesco with a fiery kick. No Fresno? Try 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
How to Store Romesco Sauce
The best way to store romesco sauce is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to one week, making it a convenient way to add excitement and flavor to otherwise basic weekday meals.
Can you freeze romesco sauce?
Yes, you can freeze romesco sauce. Portion it into ice cube trays or mini muffin liners and freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag or airtight container. This method allows you to conveniently thaw and use small amounts of the sauce as needed. Romesco sauce will keep well for up to three months in the freezer.
Romesco Sauce Tips
What dishes can I serve with romesco sauce?
Romesco sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak or pork, adding a rich and flavorful accent. It’s also great as a dipping sauce for roasted or grilled vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and smokiness. You can use romesco as a spread for sandwiches or burgers. You can also mix it into pasta for a flavorful twist. Serve it alongside grilled fish or shrimp for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Is romesco sauce served hot or cold?
Romesco sauce is typically served at room temperature or cold. This allows the flavors to meld and develop fully, making it an ideal accompaniment for a variety of dishes. It is not typically served hot but can be gently warmed if preferred.
What other herbs can I use in romesco sauce?
In addition to parsley, you can experiment with several other herbs to add different flavors to your romesco sauce. Fresh basil will add a sweet and aromatic touch,while cilantro can bring a bright, slightly citrusy note. Mint can also be a refreshing addition, providing a cool, invigorating twist to the sauce.
What is the difference between Romanesco and romesco?
Romanesco and romesco are quite different despite their similar names. Romanesco is a type of vegetable, also known as Romanesco broccoli or Roman cauliflower. Romesco is a Spanish sauce made from roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, tomatoes, bread and olive oil, among other ingredients.
