Romesco

Ingredients

• 1 medium onion, peeled and halved lengthwise
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 slice pain au levain (4 by 5 in. and about 1/2 in. thick), crusts removed, chopped
• 1/3 cup Marcona or other roasted almonds
• 1 1/2 cups roasted red peppers, rinsed and coarsely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 teaspoons sweet smoked Spanish paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon red chile flakes
• 2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Preparation

1. 1. Preheat oven to 425°. Coat onion with 1 tbsp. oil. Roast in a pie pan, cut side down, until soft when pressed, 40 to 45 minutes. Discard dark outer layer. Slice onion crosswise.
2. 2. Toast bread and almonds in a large frying pan over medium-low to low heat, stirring occasionally, until bread is crisp but not brown, 7 to 8 minutes. Add 3 tbsp. oil, the onion, peppers, garlic, paprika, and chile flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until garlic is softened, 8 to 12 minutes.
3. 3. Purée mixture in a food processor with remaining 5 tbsp. oil, the vinegar, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Make ahead: Up to 1 week, chilled; serve at room temperature.