Substitute for Pimentos: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for pimentos is Roasted Red Peppers at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Roasted Red Peppers
Same amount (1:1)
Roasted Red Peppers is a workable stand-in for pimentos. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Texture runs thicker than the original, so a splash of liquid may help in thinner preparations. Texture runs looser than the original, which matters most in baking and creamy sauces. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
What are the other substitutes for pimentos?
Canned pimientos (drained)
Same amount (1:1)
Canned pimientos (drained) works as a substitute for pimentos in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Jarred roasted red peppers
Same amount (1:1)
Jarred roasted red peppers works as a substitute for pimentos in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting pimentos?
Roasted Red Peppers is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to pimentos in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Potency varies a lot with dried spices and herbs, so taste as you go instead of making the full adjustment at once.
How do you substitute pimentos in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for pimentos and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Roasted Red Peppers is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role pimentos plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for pimentos depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Roasted Red Peppers (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Canned pimientos (drained) (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Canned pimientos (drained) works as a substitute for pimentos in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting pimentos, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Pimentos?
Roasted Red Peppers is the best place to start for pimentos. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Pimentos?
This page lists 3 substitutes for pimentos. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.