Baked Bell Peppers: How to Make a Tasty Side Dish in just a Few Minutes!

Baked bell peppers are like a little gift from your oven, warm, soft, and bursting with natural sweetness. This dish is easy to prepare, just roast vibrant red, yellow, and green bell peppers until their skins blister, then peel, slice, and drizzle them with olive oil, garlic, basil, and a touch of seasoning. This dish is perfect whether you're serving them as a side dish, a colorful appetizer, or even tossing them into your main course. A bonus is that they're vegan, gluten-free, and utterly irresistible.

What Are Baked Bell Peppers? 

The peppers' time in the oven brings out their sweetness, making them tender and smoky. While popular in Italian, Spanish, and Middle Eastern cuisines, this versatile recipe is universal. It's similar to peperonata or escalivada, dishes known for their simplicity and use of roasted vegetables.

Bell peppers are technically fruits! Awesome right? They’re part of the nightshade family, related to tomatoes and eggplants, and are jam-packed with vitamins A and C. Historically, they were cultivated in Central and South America before spreading to Europe and becoming a pantry staple worldwide.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Bell Peppers

• Look for firm and fresh peppers with shiny, taut skin for the best roasting results.
• A mix of red, yellow, and green peppers not only tastes great but also adds visual appeal.
• Use quality olive oil. A good olive oil elevates the flavors, so don't skip this part.
• Slice for elegance. Cut the peppers into even strips for an eye-catching presentation.
• Garnish this dish like a pro. Fresh basil leaves are classic, but try parsley or a sprinkle of feta for a twist.
• Enjoy them warm, room temp, or chilled, they’re delicious any way.

What’s the Best Way to Peel Bell Peppers?  

Cover the hot roasted peppers with plastic wrap or a damp towel for 30 minutes. This traps steam and loosens the skin for easy peeling.

Can I Use a Different Oil?  

Absolutely! Try avocado oil for a neutral flavor or sesame oil for a nutty twist.

Can I Add Other Herbs?  

Of course! Thyme, oregano, or rosemary are great additions to complement the basil.

Are Bell Peppers Low-Calorie?  

Yes! They’re naturally low in calories but high in flavor and nutrients, making them a healthy choice.

What’s the Best Dish to Pair with Baked Bell Peppers?  

Serve them alongside grilled chicken, fish, or atop crusty bread as a bruschetta topping.

How to Store Leftovers  

Place any leftover baked bell peppers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. Or store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge, bring them to room temperature and gently reheat. Drizzle with fresh olive oil before serving.

How to Make Baked Bell Peppers

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (374°F) and wash the bell peppers thoroughly and pat them dry. Place the peppers on a baking sheet, and bake for 1 hour, turning them frequently, then transfer into a bowl.

Step 2. Cover the bell peppers with plastic wrap. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to steam, making the skins easier to remove.

Step 3. Peel away the skins, remove the seeds and stems, and slice the peppers into thin strips.

Step 4. Arrange the slices on a platter, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and add the sliced garlic and fresh basil leaves. Serve and Enjoy.