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Hot Red Pepper Pesto

Peperoncini al Pesto

Mary Ann Esposito

Say pesto and most people will think of the classic basil, pine nut, oil and garlic based sauce. But today's pestos go far beyond that, like this fiery and fabulous hot red pepper pesto. Use it on pasta, or vegetables. Spread it on pizza and crostini but don't eat it straight out of the jar! This is a perfect way to use up those hot red pepper plants from the garden, or a bagful from your supermarket! Makes a nice hostess gift as well.

Ingredients

12 small hot red peppers, stems removed
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
Filippo Berio Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Directions

Caution is called for when handling hot peppers; it is best to use rubber or latex gloves and never put your hands to your eyes or face when working with hot peppers.

Wash and dry the peppers; cut the peppers in half or quarters and remove and discard the seeds and veins.

Place the peppers in a food processor and coarsely grind them. Add the salt, vinegar and sugar. With the motor running,drizzle the olive oil through the feed tube until the mixture is a paste consistency.

Transfer the mixture into a jar. Cap and refrigerate.

To use, depending on your taste, use a teaspoon to mix into chili, tomato sauce, or add to stir fries, and sautéed mixed vegetables.

This recipe is featured on show 1906 - The Devil.

item recipe is featured in Episode 1906 of Season 19.

Want More Recipes? See My Latest Book:

Ciao Italia Family Classics

Mary Ann returns to her family's humble beginnings to bring us a treasure trove of more than 200 time-honored recipes.

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A Testimonial From Mario Batali:

This collection epitomizes the tradition and love that goes into all of Mary Ann Esposito's cooking. Like her award-winning TV series, this book will live on for years with all of those who cook her delicious recipes. My kids love everything Mary Ann cooks!"

Comments

Gaile

February 28, 2011 at 11:09am | Permalink

I love this on cambazola cheese as an appetizer, in an omelet, on top of a hamburger or anything you want a bite with. My girlfriends are so happy when I bring it to a dinner.

phyllis tully

July 31, 2011 at 2:01pm | Permalink

i enjoy Mary"s shows very much very educational

marianne

May 21, 2012 at 2:18pm | Permalink

thank you for your reply for the hot pepper pesto. I love your program. M

Debra

November 3, 2012 at 11:31pm | Permalink

I love your shows and books. Everything looks tasty. You mentioned on one of your episodes about using the Hot Pepper Pesto. Have you ever canned it or do you just store in the refrigerator?

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Gaile

February 28, 2011 at 11:09am | Permalink

I love this on cambazola cheese as an appetizer, in an omelet, on top of a hamburger or anything you want a bite with. My girlfriends are so happy when I bring it to a dinner.
phyllis tully

July 31, 2011 at 2:01pm | Permalink

i enjoy Mary"s shows very much very educational
marianne

May 21, 2012 at 2:18pm | Permalink

thank you for your reply for the hot pepper pesto. I love your program. M
Debra

November 3, 2012 at 11:31pm | Permalink

I love your shows and books. Everything looks tasty. You mentioned on one of your episodes about using the Hot Pepper Pesto. Have you ever canned it or do you just store in the refrigerator?