Looking to add some vibrant colors and flavors to your meals? Bell peppers are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can brighten up any dish. Whether you’re a fan of their sweet, mild taste or the slight crunch they add, bell peppers can fit into a wide variety of recipes.
In this article, you’ll discover 16 tantalizing bell pepper recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From stuffed peppers to hearty soups and stir-fries, these recipes will help you make the most out of this colorful vegetable.
1) Roasted Red Bell Pepper Soup
Roasted Red Bell Pepper Soup is a cozy and flavorful dish, perfect for any time of the year.
Start by roasting red bell peppers in the oven until they’re slightly charred. You can also roast garlic and onions together with the peppers for added flavor.
Once roasted, sauté chopped onions and garlic in a large pot until the onions are translucent.
Add the roasted peppers and continue to cook for a few more minutes. Pour in chicken broth, and for a creamy texture, add some beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer.
Using a blender or an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
You can add herbs like basil and thyme for extra flavor. A little cream or parmesan cheese can also make the soup richer. A touch of sugar can balance out the flavors if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread. It’s a delicious way to warm up your day.
2) Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa make a nutritious and hearty dish. Quinoa is a great source of protein and pairs well with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Prepare your bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes.
Cook the quinoa separately in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until the water is absorbed, usually about 15 minutes. You can add a pinch of salt to the quinoa for extra flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with ingredients like black beans, corn, chopped tomatoes, and spices such as cumin and chili powder. This adds a lot of flavor and texture to your filling.
Spoon the quinoa mixture into each bell pepper cavity. Arrange them in your prepared baking dish. If you like, sprinkle some cheese on top for a melty finish. Bake the peppers for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender.
Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa are versatile. You can customize the filling with other ingredients like ground beef, onions, or even different spices. This makes it easy to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.
3) Grilled Bell Pepper Salad
Grilled bell pepper salad is a vibrant and tasty dish perfect for summer. Start by slicing red, yellow, and orange bell peppers into thick strips. Place them on the grill until they have nice char marks and are tender.
Once the peppers are grilled, let them cool slightly. Chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add them to a bowl with mixed greens, like arugula or spinach.
Next, dice a red onion and add it to the bowl. Toss in some crumbled feta cheese and halved cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving.
This grilled bell pepper salad is simple yet flavorful. It makes a great side dish or light meal on a hot summer day.
4) Bell Pepper and Chicken Stir-Fry
Bell Pepper and Chicken Stir-Fry is a tasty and simple dish to cook. You start by heating oil in a pan or wok. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they are golden brown.
Add sliced bell peppers and onions to the pan. Toss them for a couple of minutes until they brighten up in color. The combination of bell peppers, onions, and chicken creates a colorful and delicious meal.
To make your stir-fry even more flavorful, prepare a simple sauce with cornstarch, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Mix everything well and cook for another minute or two until the sauce thickens.
This dish is fast and healthy, making it perfect for a weekday dinner. You can serve it over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of this easy stir-fry recipe!
5) Bell Pepper Salsa
Bell pepper salsa is a bright and flavorful dish that adds a crunch to any meal. It’s perfect for dipping or as a topping for tacos, salads, or grilled meats.
To make bell pepper salsa, you’ll need a mix of colorful bell peppers: red, yellow, and green. These peppers bring sweetness and variety to the salsa.
Start by dicing all the bell peppers into small, even pieces. Next, chop some red onion and tomatoes. Add these to the bowl with the peppers.
For the spice, you can add minced jalapeños. To adjust the heat, remove the seeds if you prefer a milder taste.
Fresh cilantro is key. Chop it finely and add it to the mix. Then, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and add a pinch of kosher salt.
Mix all the ingredients well. Let the salsa sit for a bit so the flavors can blend together. You can serve it right away or chill it in the fridge.
Bell pepper salsa is easy to make and brings fresh tastes to the table.
6) Bell Pepper Frittata
Bell pepper frittatas are a tasty and colorful addition to any meal. Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF.
In an ovenproof skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until they become tender and golden, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Next, add diced red bell peppers and continue cooking for around 5 more minutes.
Once the peppers are softened, add any other vegetables you like, such as spinach or zucchini. Cook these for a minute until they’re just wilted. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the vegetables.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the frittata is set, which takes about 10-15 minutes. You can also add cheese, like Parmesan, on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
This easy and quick recipe makes a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner option. It’s versatile and allows for plenty of creativity with different vegetables and seasonings. Enjoy your flavorful bell pepper frittata!
7) Bell Pepper Hummus
Bell pepper hummus is a tasty twist on traditional hummus.
Start by roasting red bell peppers. Cut them into halves, remove the seeds, and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven at 450°F until the skin is charred. Let them cool, then peel off the skins.
Blend tahini and lemon juice in a food processor for about a minute. This helps whip the tahini to a creamy texture. Add canned chickpeas, garlic, and the roasted bell peppers. Blend until smooth.
Season the hummus with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, you can add a little cumin or smoked paprika. Serve your bell pepper hummus with pita bread, fresh veggies, or as a spread on sandwiches.
For a finishing touch, drizzle olive oil on top. Garnish with toasted pine nuts or fresh herbs. Enjoy your delicious and colorful bell pepper hummus!
8) Bell Pepper Pasta Primavera
Bell Pepper Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and tasty dish perfect for any meal. To start, get a large pot and bring salted water to a boil. You’ll need red, yellow, and green bell peppers, along with other fresh veggies like zucchini and cherry tomatoes.
Cook your pasta in the boiling water until al dente. Set aside a cup of pasta water before draining. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped bell peppers and sauté for a few minutes.
Next, add sliced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the pan. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in some of the reserved pasta water and let it simmer.
Combine the cooked pasta with the veggies in the pan. Add a splash of lemon juice and some grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your Bell Pepper Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. This dish is not only delicious but also filled with colorful, nutritious vegetables. Enjoy this simple and flavorful meal any day of the week!
9) Bell Pepper and Sausage Skewers
Bell Pepper and Sausage Skewers are a colorful and tasty dish perfect for grilling. You’ll need bell peppers, sausage, onions, and a few seasonings. Start by cutting the bell peppers and sausage into bite-sized pieces. Do the same with the onions.
Thread the pieces onto skewers, alternating between sausage, bell peppers, and onions. This ensures even cooking and a mix of flavors in every bite. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. The sausage should be fully cooked, and the peppers should be slightly charred.
You can serve these skewers with a side of couscous or salad. They also work great as an appetizer for a barbecue. The combination of savory sausage and sweet bell peppers is sure to be a hit.
10) Bell Pepper and Black Bean Chili
For a healthy and hearty meal, try making bell pepper and black bean chili. You’ll need fresh bell peppers, onions, garlic, and black beans.
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they become soft and slightly translucent. This usually takes about 4 minutes.
Next, add minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for another 4 minutes, stirring often. You’ll want the bell peppers to become tender but not mushy.
Now, add your spices. Use chili powder, cumin, and black pepper. Stir well to make sure everything is coated. Pour in canned black beans (do not drain) and fire-roasted tomatoes.
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly open. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
You can serve the chili hot, either by itself or over rice. Feel free to top it off with cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious bell pepper and black bean chili!
11) Bell Pepper Ratatouille
Bell Pepper Ratatouille is a flavorful dish that showcases the vibrant colors and tastes of bell peppers, eggplant, and zucchini.
Start by chopping bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and onions into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent.
Next, add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds. Toss in the bell peppers and cook for a few more minutes to soften them. Add the eggplant and zucchini, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, and fresh or dried thyme. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
Finish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. Bell Pepper Ratatouille can be enjoyed hot as a main dish or served cold as a side. It pairs well with crusty bread or steamed rice. Enjoy the harmony of flavors in this classic dish!
12) Bell Pepper Bruschetta
Bell Pepper Bruschetta is a vibrant and tasty appetizer that is easy to make. Start with fresh bell peppers—red, green, yellow, or a mix. This dish brings a colorful and delicious twist to traditional bruschetta.
First, roast the bell peppers. You can do this by placing them under a broiler or in a hot oven until the skins are charred. Once roasted, let them cool. Then, remove the skins and seeds.
Next, chop the roasted peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mix them in a bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour to let the flavors blend together.
To serve, toast slices of baguette or your favorite bread. Spoon the pepper mixture onto each slice. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and color. This bruschetta is perfect for parties or a simple snack. Enjoy the blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.
13) Bell Pepper Pizza
Bell pepper pizza is a healthy and fun twist on traditional pizza. Instead of using a doughy crust, you use bell pepper halves as the base. This makes the dish low-carb and full of nutrients.
Start by cutting your bell peppers in half and removing the seeds. Choose any color bell pepper you like. Preheat your oven to around 375°F to 400°F.
Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Fill each pepper half with a few tablespoons of pizza sauce. Then, add your favorite toppings such as mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, olives, and mushrooms.
Bake the stuffed peppers in the oven for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your oven and how soft you like your pepper. The cheese should be melted, and the peppers should be tender-crisp.
This is a versatile recipe, so feel free to experiment with different toppings. You can add veggies like broccoli, tomatoes, or onions. You can also try different cheeses or even add some cooked sausage for extra protein. Enjoy your bell pepper pizza hot from the oven.
14) Bell Pepper Relish
Bell pepper relish is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate many dishes.
Begin by finely chopping bell peppers and onions. Place them in boiling water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
Transfer the pepper mixture to a large saucepan. Add sugar, vinegar, celery seed, and salt. Boil for 15 minutes.
Stir and continue to cook until the mixture thickens. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent scorching.
Once thickened, carefully ladle the mixture into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
Use a damp cloth to wipe any spills from the jar rims. Seal and process the jars according to canning guidelines.
You now have a tasty relish ready to be enjoyed with your favorite meals.
15) Bell Pepper and Corn Chowder
Bell Pepper and Corn Chowder is a comforting soup that combines the sweetness of corn with the vibrant flavor of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a cozy meal.
Start by heating some butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add diced bell peppers and minced garlic, and cook for one more minute.
Next, add vegetable stock along with peeled and diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the corn kernels and let the chowder simmer for an additional 5 minutes. For extra creaminess, blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back into the pot.
Season the chowder with salt, pepper, and fresh dill. If you like a richer texture, add a splash of half-and-half or cream. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Serve your Bell Pepper and Corn Chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
16) Pickled Bell Peppers
Pickled bell peppers are a great way to preserve fresh peppers. They add a tangy, sweet crunch to salads, sandwiches, and more. The process is simple and doesn’t take much time.
Start by slicing the bell peppers and placing them in a large glass jar. You can also add sliced onions and smashed garlic for extra flavor.
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil. Pour it over the peppers in the jar, making sure they are completely covered.
To enhance the flavor, you can add spices like mustard seeds, fennel seeds, or celery seeds to the brine. Some recipes also recommend placing pickling spices in a cheesecloth and adding it to the jar.
Seal the jar tightly and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. The peppers will be ready to eat in a few days but will taste even better if you let them pickle for a week.
Use your pickled bell peppers to add a zesty kick to your meals. They are perfect for hosting parties or adding to everyday dishes. Their vibrant color makes them a visually appealing addition as well.
Benefits of Including Bell Peppers in Your Diet
Bell peppers are loaded with essential nutrients and offer numerous health benefits that can contribute positively to your diet.
Nutritional Value
Bell peppers, especially the red ones, are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. A medium bell pepper can provide up to 190% of your daily vitamin C needs. Bell peppers also contain vitamin A. One red bell pepper offers around 234 mcg of vitamin A, vital for maintaining vision and skin health.
Besides vitamins, bell peppers contain important minerals like potassium and folate. They are low in calories, with just about 30 calories per cup, making them an excellent choice for weight management.
Health Advantages
Eating bell peppers can offer several important health benefits. The antioxidants in bell peppers, such as capsanthin and flavonoids, help protect against oxidative damage. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Bell peppers also contain phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help lower inflammation in the body. Including them in your meals can also promote heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to their nutrient profile. Their fiber content aids digestion and keeps you full longer, supporting a balanced diet.
Popular Bell Pepper Varieties
Bell peppers come in different colors, each with its own taste and use. Understanding these varieties can help you choose the best one for your dish.
Green Bell Peppers
Green bell peppers have a slightly bitter taste. They are often used in stir-fries, salads, and stuffing.
Red Bell Peppers
Red peppers are sweeter than green ones. They are good roasted, in salads, or as a snack.
Yellow Bell Peppers
Yellow bell peppers are milder and sweeter. They brighten up salads and are great for grilling.
Orange Bell Peppers
Orange peppers are sweet and fruity. They work well in salsas and salads.
Purple Bell Peppers
Purple bell peppers have a slightly earthy taste. They are less common but add a unique color to dishes.
White Bell Peppers
White bell peppers have a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They are great for adding a different look to recipes.
