Seasons/Availability
Green bell peppers are available year-round.
Selection/Storage
Choose green bell peppers that are firm and have smooth, bright, and vibrant skin. Avoid bell peppers with soft spots or blemishes. Store them unwashed in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them whole or cut into strips or cubes.
Preparation
Green bell peppers should be rinsed thoroughly before being used. To prepare, remove the top and core, then slice or dice according to recipe instructions. Green bell peppers can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes. Roasting brings out their sweetness and enhances their flavor. They are also popularly stuffed with a range of ingredients such as beef, quinoa, and rice. Green bell peppers can be baked, grilled, sautéed, steamed, stir-fried or added raw to salads and sandwiches. They can also be pureed into sauces or added to soups for flavor.
Nutritional Value
Green bell peppers are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamins A, C, K, E, and B6. They are also a good source of folate, potassium, and magnesium. Additionally, they contain carotenoids which possess antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation.
Tips/Serving Suggestions
Green bell peppers can be used in a variety of recipes such as salads, soups, stews, stir-fries, omelettes, and sandwiches. They can also be roasted and served as an appetizer or side dish. Green bell peppers are commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in tabbouleh salad, which is a mixture of cracked wheat, chopped parsley, tomatoes, onion and green bell pepper dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Green bell peppers can also be stuffed with a mix of cooked vegetables, cheese, and herbs. They can also be added to pasta dishes or used to top pizzas. For a quick snack, green bell peppers can be cut into strips and eaten with hummus or other dips.
Green bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients that can boost your health in multiple ways. They are versatile and can be used in various dishes, making them a great addition to any kitchen.
