Transform your kitchen with this incredibly flavorful *Whole30 Homemade Ajvar*, a roasted red pepper and eggplant spread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. This Balkan-inspired recipe is fully Whole30-compliant, making it a healthy, guilt-free option for spreading, dipping, or topping your favorite dishes. Fire-roasted red peppers and tender eggplant are blended with garlic, olive oil, and a zesty splash of lemon juice and apple cider vinegar to create a smoky, velvety ajvar that’s subtly seasoned with chili flakes for an optional kick. Perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, eggs, or roasted veggies, this vibrant condiment is the ultimate pairing for clean eating and flavor enthusiasts alike. Ready in just over an hour, including roasting time, and crafted with wholesome ingredients, this ajvar is an irresistible addition to your Whole30 toolkit.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Wash and dry the red bell peppers and eggplant. Cut the red peppers in half and remove the seeds. Slice the eggplant into 1-inch thick rounds.
Place the peppers (cut side down) and eggplant on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers have blistered and the eggplant is tender.
While the vegetables are roasting, peel the garlic cloves.
Once the vegetables are done roasting, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. You can place the peppers in a bowl and cover them with plastic wrap for easier peeling.
Peel the skins from the roasted peppers. They should come off easily. Discard the skins.
In a food processor, add the peeled roasted peppers, roasted eggplant, peeled garlic cloves, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, sea salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and chili flakes if using.
Pulse the mixture until you achieve a smooth yet slightly textured consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, lemon juice, or chili flakes to your preference.
Transfer the ajvar to a bowl or jar and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve as a spread, a dip, or a condiment. Enjoy your Whole30 Homemade Ajvar with grilled meats, eggs, or as a flavor boost for your salads!
Calories |
687 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 44.7 g | 57% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.8 g | 34% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2930 mg | 127% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 67.9 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.9 g | 100% | |
| Total Sugars | 38.0 g | ||
| Protein | 11.4 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 103 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 4.2 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 2415 mg | 51% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.