Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This mushroom bell pepper recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and requires minimal cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe delivers a fantastic balance of textures and tastes, showcasing the earthy mushrooms beautifully complemented by the sweetness of bell peppers. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, cored and chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of the dish.
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Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even cooking.
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Add the bell peppers: Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until the peppers start to soften.
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Simmer the sauce: Add the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, and basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This easy recipe is perfect served as a quick dinner, a light lunch, or even a delicious side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mushroom Bell Pepper Recipe:
- Don't overcook the mushrooms: Overcooked mushrooms can become rubbery. Cook them until they're tender but still retain some bite.
- Use a variety of mushrooms: Feel free to experiment with other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms.
- Add some heat: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting any dairy products.
Variations:
- Add protein: Include cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Cheese please!: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 4-6 grams
This delicious and healthy mushroom bell pepper recipe is perfect for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas or easy recipes. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy!