Vegetables
What are bell peppers?
Bell peppers, also known as sweet peppers or capsicums, are a type of cultivar of the species Capsicum annuum. They are characterized by their large, bell-shaped fruit and come in a variety of colors including green, red, yellow, and orange. Bell peppers are typically eaten raw or cooked and are a good source of vitamin C and other nutrients. They are used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries.
How do you cook bell peppers?
There are several ways to cook bell peppers, depending on the desired outcome. Some popular methods include:
- Roasting: Cut the bell peppers into slices or chunks, toss with oil, and roast in a hot oven (400-450°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.
- Sautéing: Cut the bell peppers into slices or chunks, heat oil in a pan, and sauté the peppers over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Grilling: Cut the bell peppers into slices or leave them whole, brush with oil and grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
- Steaming: Cut the bell peppers into slices or chunks and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Stir-Fry: Cut the bell peppers into thin strips, and stir fry in a pan with some oil, garlic, and other vegetables for about 5-7 minutes.
These are just a few examples, bell peppers can be added to pasta, soups, sandwiches, salads, and can be stuffed too.
What are some good dishes that use bell peppers?
Bell peppers are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Some popular dishes that use bell peppers include:
- Stuffed bell peppers: Bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a mixture of rice, meat, and vegetables, then baked in the oven.
- Ratatouille: A classic French dish made with a mixture of eggplant, zucchini, onion, and bell peppers, simmered in a tomato sauce.
- Fajitas: Thinly sliced bell peppers and onions are sautéed and served with grilled or sautéed chicken, beef or shrimp along with tortillas.
- Bell pepper and tomato soup: A healthy and delicious soup made with bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and other vegetables.
- Pepperoni Pizza: A pizza with pepperoni and sliced bell peppers.
- Grilled bell peppers salad: Grilled bell peppers sliced and served on a bed of mixed greens with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Paella: A traditional Spanish dish made with saffron, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo, and also includes bell peppers.
- Bell pepper and chicken stir-fry: Bell peppers and chicken are stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and a flavorful sauce.
These are just a few examples of dishes that use bell peppers. Bell peppers can be used in many cuisines, and can be a great addition to sandwiches, sandwiches, soups, and many more dishes.
Selected Recipes
- Serve these Turkey-Stuffed Bell Peppers with a side of Rosemary Roasted Potatoes.
This is quick and easy with ground turkey, or you can take all day with a whole bird.
