Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish or light meal? Look no further! This Italian Sweet Peppers recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and bursts with the vibrant tastes of summer. Perfect as a side with grilled chicken or fish, or simply enjoyed on its own, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. Get ready for a taste of sunshine on your plate!
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet bell peppers (any color, or a mix!), cored, seeded, and sliced into 1-inch strips
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the Peppers: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften slightly.
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Simmer in Flavor: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley (if using). Serve warm as a delicious side dish or a light and satisfying meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the peppers beautifully.
Cooking Tips for Delicious Italian Sweet Peppers:
- Choose your peppers wisely: The sweetness of your peppers will significantly impact the final flavor. Experiment with different colors for a unique taste experience.
- Don't overcook the peppers: Overcooked peppers can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for a heartier dish. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a salty, creamy element.
Variations:
- Spicy Italian Peppers: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Italian Peppers: This recipe is already vegetarian!
- Lemon Italian Peppers: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon during the last few minutes of cooking for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a serving typically contains a low number of calories and is a good source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and portion size.
This Italian Sweet Peppers recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are also healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea that showcases homemade cooking at its best. Enjoy!