By Lisa M. Pressey
Would you like to make your own roasted peppers? This is honestly one of the easiest recipes to make, even for a beginner cook! Sure, you can buy them in the store, but they are pricey. Instead, surprise your family and friends when you bring perfectly roasted peppers to the party.
Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, with red being the most nutritious. However, they also come in yellow, orange, and green which hold nutritional value as well. Also, bell peppers are rich in antioxidants which can decrease the risk of chronic disease such as, heart disease and cancer. For example, peppers are high in vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene. Additionally, they contain substantial amounts of polyphenols.
WHAT ARE POLYPHENOLS?
Polyphenols are naturally occurring protective plant compounds that can boost your health.
4 groups of polyphenols
- Phenolic acids
- Flavonoids
- Stilbenes
- Lignans
Antioxidants and polyphenols are beneficial to your health and decrease the risk of chronic disease. Polyphenols are found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains, coffee, tea, red wine, spices and fats. By eating a well balanced diet you obtain the essential antioxidants and polyphenols that help maintain good health.
INGREDIENTS
- 6 bell peppers – red, yellow, orange
- olive oil
- salt
- garlic
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the grill
- Coat the peppers with olive oil, then place them on the hot grill.
- Rotate the peppers and cook until all sides are charred. Let them cool, then peel the skins off.
- Take off the stems, discard the seeds, then cut into stripes.
- Put the peppers into a container, then add olive oil and garlic. (garlic is optional)
My roasted peppers were made on the grill, however, they can also be made in the oven or over the flame of a gas stove. You will get similar results, I just prefer the added flavor from the grill.
Bring these roasted peppers to your next event and everyone will be impressed! Moreover, this recipe is simple, quick, and delicious.