Mary Berry Romesco Sauce Recipe

Looking for a sauce that’s smoky, nutty, and bursting with flavor? The Mary Berry Romesco Sauce is a classic Spanish-inspired condiment that combines roasted red peppers, garlic, nuts, and olive oil into a beautifully rich sauce. Traditionally served with fish or grilled vegetables, this versatile dip also works wonders as a spread for sandwiches or a topping for roasted meats.

The best part?

You can make this vibrant sauce in just 20 minutes with a handful of pantry staples. Smooth yet slightly textured, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.

What is Mary Berry Romesco Sauce?

Mary Berry’s Romesco Sauce is a Mediterranean-style sauce that originates from Catalonia, Spain. It’s typically made with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, almonds or hazelnuts, olive oil, garlic, and a touch of vinegar for acidity. Blended until smooth, the sauce has a deep smoky flavor with a nutty undertone, making it an excellent accompaniment for seafood, grilled vegetables, and even pasta.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Teriyaki Sauce
• Jamie Oliver Hoisin Sauce
• Jamie Oliver Sriracha Sauce
• Bobby Flay Pizza Dough

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Unique flavor profile – Smoky, nutty, tangy, and slightly sweet.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes.
• Healthy and wholesome – Packed with antioxidants from peppers and healthy fats from nuts.
• Versatile use – Works as a dip, spread, or sauce for countless dishes.
• Make-ahead friendly – Flavors develop even better the next day.
• Naturally gluten-free – Suitable for a variety of diets.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this bold sauce together:

• Roasted red peppers (2 large, jarred or freshly roasted) – Brings smoky sweetness.
• Tomatoes (2 medium, roasted or canned) – Adds depth and acidity.
• Almonds or hazelnuts (¼ cup, toasted) – For a nutty crunch and richness.
• Garlic cloves (2, roasted or lightly sautéed) – Balances sharpness with aroma.
• Olive oil (¼ cup, extra virgin) – Creates a silky texture.
• Red wine vinegar (1 tbsp) – Provides brightness and tang.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp) – Adds that essential smoky kick.
• Salt (to taste) – Enhances all flavors.
• Bread slice (1 small, toasted, optional) – Thickens and adds body.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender
• Skillet or oven for roasting
• Knife and chopping board
• Small frying pan (to toast nuts and garlic)
• Airtight jar or container for storage

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

• Toast the nuts
  Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly toast the almonds or hazelnuts until golden and fragrant.
• Prepare the garlic
  Roast or sauté the garlic cloves until soft and slightly caramelized.
• Blend the base
  In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, tomatoes, nuts, garlic, smoked paprika, and vinegar.
• Add olive oil
  While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
• Adjust seasoning
  Taste the sauce and add salt, extra paprika, or vinegar as needed.
• Serve or store
  Transfer to a jar. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

• Perfect with grilled fish – Enhances delicate flavors with smoky tang.
• Spread on crusty bread – Works wonderfully as a tapas starter.
• Pair with roasted vegetables – Complements aubergine, courgettes, or peppers.
• Serve with chicken or lamb – Adds depth to grilled meats.
• Toss with pasta – An alternative to tomato-based sauces.
• Dip for potatoes – Especially good with patatas bravas.
• Sandwich spread – Adds a gourmet touch to paninis or wraps.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

Getting the texture and flavor balance just right makes all the difference:

• Use freshly roasted peppers – They give a richer, smokier taste than jarred.
• Don’t skip toasting the nuts – This deepens the nutty flavor.
• Balance acidity and sweetness – Adjust vinegar and tomatoes to taste.
• Blend until silky but not watery – Romesco should be smooth yet slightly textured.
• Add bread for thickness – A traditional touch that prevents it from being too runny.
• Rest before serving – Allowing it to sit for an hour enhances flavor.
• Use high-quality olive oil – It’s the backbone of the sauce’s richness.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

Want to switch it up? Try these variations:

• Nut-free version – Replace nuts with sunflower seeds or skip entirely.
• Spicy kick – Add chili flakes or a fresh chili to the blender.
• Creamier texture – Blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
• Rustic style – Blend less for a chunky, tapenade-like texture.
• Citrus twist – Add a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

• Refrigerate immediately – Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.
• Use airtight containers – Prevents oxidation and flavor loss.
• Freeze for later use – Store in ice cube trays for small portions.
• Top with olive oil – A thin layer helps preserve freshness.
• Avoid cross-contamination – Always use a clean spoon when scooping.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Romesco Sauce

• Serve at room temperature – Best enjoyed without reheating.
• Warm gently if needed – Briefly heat in a pan over low heat, stirring constantly.
• Microwave in short bursts – 10-second intervals to avoid overheating.
• Add olive oil if too thick – Restores its smooth consistency.
• Never boil – High heat dulls the delicate smoky flavors.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Romesco Sauce Healthier?

• Reduce oil – Use half the olive oil for a lighter version.
• Skip the bread – Lowers carbs and makes it gluten-free.
• Roast with minimal oil – Use a spray instead of drizzling.
• Choose raw garlic – Adds a stronger flavor without extra fat.
• Add more veggies – Blend in roasted carrots or squash for extra nutrients.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 90
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
  (per 2 tbsp serving, approximate)

FAQs

How do you thicken Mary Berry Romesco Sauce?

To thicken Romesco sauce, blend in a small piece of toasted bread or add a handful of extra toasted nuts. Both options give the sauce more body without changing the flavor significantly.

Can I make Romesco sauce without nuts?

Yes, you can substitute nuts with sunflower seeds or skip them entirely. For texture, consider adding roasted chickpeas or breadcrumbs instead.

What kind of peppers are best for Mary Berry’s Romesco Sauce?

Roasted red bell peppers are the best choice for Romesco sauce. They offer a sweet, smoky base that blends well with garlic, vinegar, and nuts.

Do I need to cook the Romesco sauce after blending?

No, once blended, Romesco sauce is ready to serve. However, lightly warming it can help enhance its flavor when used as a topping or dip.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Romesco Sauce is one of those staples that can transform simple meals into something extraordinary. With its smoky, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor, it’s versatile enough to use as a dip, spread, or main sauce. Quick to prepare and easy to adapt, it’s a recipe worth mastering if you love bold Mediterranean flavors.

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