sweet peppers burst into the pan like colorful confetti, their glossy skins promising a sweet crunch with every bite. In my sunny kitchen, I hollow out their cheerful bell shapes and stuff them with a cozy blend of fluffy quinoa, earthy mushrooms, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, seasoned with smoked paprika and a whisper of fresh basil. A gentle pour of homemade vegetable broth steams them to tender perfection, while a drizzle of zesty lemon-garlic oil brightens each mouthful. As they roast to caramelized bliss, the aroma wraps you in a warm hug, inviting friends and family to gather around the table and share in this vibrant feast.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This sweet peppers
- Sweet peppers add vibrant color to your dishes.
- They’re packed with vitamins A and C for a health boost.
- Perfect for snacking, grilling, or stuffing!
- Easy to grow in your garden or pots.
- They bring a delightful crunch and sweetness to any meal.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat the Oil – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm up nicely.
- Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic – Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become translucent, about 3 minutes. Enjoy the aroma!
- Step 3: Add Sweet Peppers – Stir in the sliced sweet peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, letting their sweetness shine through.
- Step 4: Season the Mixture – Add oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all those lovely flavors.
- Step 5: Simmer with Tomato Paste – Mix in tomato paste and vegetable broth. Let it simmer for 7–10 minutes until the peppers are tender and delicious.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve – Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your colorful and tasty sweet peppers!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 7g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 20g |
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for a delicious sweet pepper dish!
- 4 sweet peppers (assorted colors) – sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing
- 1 small onion – thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – for a bit of heat
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth – adds moisture
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – for richness
- Fresh basil leaves – for garnish
How to Make Sweet Peppers
Get ready to enjoy a delightful dish featuring sweet peppers! This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty option for any meal.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it warm up nicely.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until they become translucent, about 3 minutes. Enjoy the aroma!
Step 3: Add Sweet Peppers
Stir in the sliced peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, letting their sweetness shine through.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Add oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all those lovely flavors.
Step 5: Simmer with Tomato Paste
Mix in tomato paste and vegetable broth. Let it simmer for 7–10 minutes until the peppers are tender and delicious.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your colorful and tasty peppers!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Warm with fresh basil garnish! |
Pro Tips for Making sweet peppers
- Choose vibrant, firm peppers for the best flavor.
- Roast them to enhance their natural sweetness and add depth.
- Pair with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- Stuff with quinoa or rice for a hearty, nutritious meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
How to Serve this sweet peppers
- Stuff with quinoa, black beans, and spices for a hearty meal.
- Slice and toss in salads for a colorful crunch.
- Grill or roast for a smoky flavor, perfect as a side dish.
- Blend into a vibrant salsa with tomatoes and cilantro.
- Use as a topping on pizzas or flatbreads for added sweetness.
- Pair with hummus or yogurt dip for a tasty appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to keep your peppers fresh and delicious:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow sweet peppers to cool completely.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing Peppers
- Wash and slice peppers as desired.
- Blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
- Cool in ice water, then drain well.
- Place in freezer bags, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 6 months.
Reheating Peppers
- For leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add a splash of vegetable broth for moisture.
- For frozen peppers, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What kind of peppers are sweet peppers?
Sweet peppers, also known as bell peppers, are a variety of Capsicum annuum. They come in various colors, including red, yellow, orange, and green, and are known for their mild, sweet flavor. Unlike hot peppers, sweet peppers do not contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for spiciness, making them a great choice for those who prefer a milder taste.
2. What type of peppers are sweet peppers?
Sweet peppers belong to the bell pepper category, which is characterized by their thick, fleshy walls and sweet taste. They are commonly used in salads, stir-fries, and as a topping for various dishes. Other types of peppers include the Italian frying pepper and the Cubanelle, which also offer a sweet flavor but may have different shapes and sizes.
3. What kind of pepper is sweeter?
Among the sweet peppers, red bell peppers are typically the sweetest. As peppers ripen from green to red, their sugar content increases, resulting in a sweeter flavor. If you’re looking for a sweeter option, opt for red or yellow bell peppers, as they are harvested later and have a more developed sweetness compared to their green counterparts.
4. Are sweet peppers healthy?
Absolutely! Sweet peppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting good vision. Additionally, they contain antioxidants that can help protect your body from oxidative stress, making them a great addition to a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
Growing sweet peppers is a delightful journey that brings a splash of color and flavor to your kitchen! Remember, it’s all about enjoying the process and savoring the fruits of your labor. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, and relish the simple joy of harvesting your own peppers. Happy gardening!