Red Bell Peppers

Red Bell Peppers are sweet, vibrant vegetables that are a staple in a variety of cuisines, including Mediterranean, Spanish, and American. They are available year-round, with peak season in the summer and early fall. These peppers are versatile in the kitchen, used both raw and cooked to add color, sweetness, and a mild, fruity flavor to dishes. They can be roasted, grilled, sautéed, or chopped fresh for salads and salsas.

Red Bell Peppers Synonyms

Sweet pepper
Capsicum
Paprika (when dried and powdered)

Different Forms/Types of Red Bell Peppers

Dried

Dehydrated red bell peppers, often ground into powder or sold as flakes, used as a spice or flavoring agent.

Fresh

Whole, unprocessed red bell peppers, ideal for slicing, dicing, and roasting to bring out their natural sweetness.

Frozen

Red bell peppers that have been sliced and flash-frozen, convenient for out-of-season use or quick meal prep.

Pickled

Red bell peppers preserved in vinegar and spices, offering a tangy flavor suitable for sandwiches, salads, and antipasti.

Roasted

Red bell peppers that have been cooked to enhance their sweetness and add a smoky flavor, available in jars or cans.

How to Choose Red Bell Peppers

When selecting fresh red bell peppers, look for ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a bright, vibrant color with taut skin. Avoid peppers with wrinkles, soft spots, or blemishes. For roasted, jarred, or canned peppers, choose brands that list peppers and water as the main ingredients, with minimal added salt or preservatives. Check the integrity of the jar or can, ensuring there are no dents, rust, or signs of bulging.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Red Bell Peppers

Red Bell Peppers are vibrant vegetables that add sweetness and color to a variety of dishes. When cooking red bell peppers, it's important to consider the texture you're aiming for. For a tender-crisp texture, a quick sauté or stir-fry is ideal. If you prefer a soft, sweet pepper, roasting or grilling until the skin blisters will enhance their natural sugars. To remove the skin, which can be indigestible for some, char the peppers over an open flame or roast in the oven, then place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap to steam, making the skin easier to peel away. When slicing red bell peppers, remove the core and seeds, and cut them according to the size and shape needed for your recipe. For dishes where the pepper is the star, such as stuffed peppers, keep them whole, just removing the tops and seeds.

Shelf Life of Red Bell Peppers

Store fresh red bell peppers in the vegetable crisper of your refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to two weeks. Roasted, jarred peppers should be refrigerated after opening and used within 1-2 weeks. Dried red pepper flakes or powder should be kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain their potency. Frozen red bell peppers should be kept in the freezer and used before the date indicated on the package to ensure the best quality and flavor.

Recommended Brands for Red Bell Peppers

frozen red peppers: Birds Eye

pickled red peppers: Vlasic

roasted red peppers: Mezzetta

dried red pepper flakes: McCormick

Cooking Techniques for Red Bell Peppers

Grilling: Grilling red bell peppers over medium-high heat until charred on all sides imparts a smoky flavor. This method is excellent for salads, salsas, or as a smoky addition to pasta dishes.

Roasting: Roasting red bell peppers at 450°F (232°C) until their skin blisters brings out a deep, sweet flavor. This technique is ideal for making dips, sauces, or as a topping for sandwiches and pizzas.

Sautéing: Quickly sautéing diced or sliced red bell peppers in oil over medium-high heat enhances their sweetness and maintains a bit of crunch. This method is perfect for fajitas, stir-fries, or as a colorful addition to omelets.

Popular Red Bell Peppers Recipes

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Stuffed Red Bell Peppers
Red Pepper and Tomato Soup

Red Bell Peppers Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.3 g
fiber: 2.1 g
sugar: 4.2 g
protein: 1 g
calories: 31 kcal
carbohydrates: 6 g

Flavor Combinations

Red Bell Peppers pair well with a variety of flavors and ingredients. They complement onions, garlic, and zucchini, and work well with Mediterranean herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, and mozzarella enhance their sweetness, while pairing with proteins like chicken, beef, or tofu can make for a hearty dish. For a flavor contrast, try adding acidic components like balsamic vinegar or citrus to balance the pepper's sweetness.