5 Delicious Recipes with Green Bell Peppers

Green bell peppers, known for their vibrant color and crisp texture, are not just a staple in many culinary dishes but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, these peppers can enhance the flavor of your meals while providing health benefits. Let's dive into five recipes where green bell peppers steal the show!

1. Stuffed Green Peppers

This classic dish not only looks appealing but is also a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of nutrients into one meal.

• 6 large green bell peppers
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly steam or microwave them for 2-3 minutes to soften.
3. In a skillet, cook the meat with onions until browned. Add garlic, cook for another minute.
4. Mix in rice, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stuff the peppers with this mixture.
5. Top with cheese, bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

🌟 Note: Stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Green Pepper Salad

A refreshing salad that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a standalone dish.

• 4 green bell peppers, sliced thin
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Preparation:

1. Toss peppers, cucumber, and onion in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together oil, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and mix well.
3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors. Add dill before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

💡 Note: This salad gets better if it sits longer, making it perfect for meal prep.

3. Green Pepper Chicken Stir-Fry

Quick, colorful, and packed with flavor, this stir-fry is a great way to use green bell peppers for a weeknight dinner.

• 1 lb boneless chicken, cut into strips
• 3 green bell peppers, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• Green onions, sliced for garnish

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and chicken. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
2. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add chicken, cook until almost done.
3. Add green peppers, stir-fry until they are crisp-tender. Pour in chicken broth, cook until the sauce thickens.
4. Garnish with green onions before serving.

4. Green Pepper and Potato Hash

Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this hash combines the comforting flavors of potatoes with the zesty crunch of peppers.

• 4 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 green bell peppers, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt, pepper, paprika for seasoning
• Parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, sauté onion and peppers until soft.
3. Add potatoes, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until potatoes are crispy.
4. Make wells in the hash, crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs are done to your liking.
5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

🌟 Note: For a vegetarian version, omit the eggs or replace with tofu or extra veggies.

5. Green Bell Pepper Salsa

Try a different twist on traditional salsa by incorporating green bell peppers for a milder, yet still flavorful experience.

• 2 green bell peppers, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Let the salsa sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or with grilled meats.

🍅 Note: This salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Green bell peppers are incredibly versatile, adding both nutritional value and a burst of color to any dish. From the heartiness of stuffed peppers to the light, zesty salad, these recipes not only highlight the flavors but also cater to various dietary preferences and cooking skills. By incorporating green bell peppers into your meals, you're not just enhancing your dishes but also making a healthy choice.

Can green bell peppers be used in soups?

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Yes, green bell peppers can add a wonderful crunch and flavor to soups. They work well in broths, especially in dishes like vegetable, chicken, or even a beefy chili.

Are green bell peppers less nutritious than their colored counterparts?

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Green bell peppers are not less nutritious; they just have different nutritional profiles. They are lower in certain vitamins compared to red, yellow, or orange peppers but are still a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

How long do green bell peppers last in the fridge?

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When stored properly, green bell peppers can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Keep them in the crisper drawer, ideally in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity.