Spice Up Your Meal with This Baked Capsicum Delight!
As I sit here reflecting on my travels through Italy, I can’t help but think about the incredible foods that influenced my cooking and inspired me to create my own innovative recipes. One dish that has always been a favorite of mine is Baked Capsicum (Bell Peppers). It’s the perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave your taste buds craving more.
This is an oven-roasted bell peppers recipe that can be served as a side dish or a main course. The process of preparing stuffed bell peppers is easy, and you can even customize it based on your preferences. You can stuff them with anything from rice to ground beef to veggies or tuna – it’s all up to you!
In this recipe, we will roast the bell peppers in the oven until they are perfectly tender, then mix them with tuna, black olives, garlic, and parsley. It’s an explosion of flavor in every bite! With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform plain bell peppers into a delicious and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re looking for something light and flavorful or hearty and filling, these baked stuffed capsicums are sure to do the trick. So why not step out of your comfort zone and give this recipe a try? Trust me; you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear food enthusiast, have you ever tried a recipe that made you feel like dancing with joy? If you’re looking for that kind of recipe, then let me introduce you to my Baked Capsicum (Bell Peppers) Recipe. This recipe is not just any ordinary style of baked bell peppers, but one that will take your taste buds on a journey like never before.
First and foremost, this recipe is easy to make and budget-friendly. With simple ingredients such as extra virgin olive oil, garlic clove, parsley, black olives, tuna, and of course – capsicums (or bell peppers as they’re also known), you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor without breaking the bank.
But let’s talk about the true hero of this dish – the roasted bell peppers. By roasting the peppers in the oven at 450 degrees for 40 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred, their natural sweetness is enhanced, creating flavors that are out of this world. You can cut them into wide strips or quarters, toss them in olive oil and oregano seasoning, and roast them on a lined baking sheet in the oven preheated to 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes.
The versatility of this recipe is another reason why it will become your new favorite. You can stuff these roasted peppers with anything your heart desires from ground beef or chicken to veggie options like rice or southwestern stuffing. Mini peppers work just as well too!
So what are you waiting for? Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a novice in the kitchen, my Baked Capsicum Recipe is perfect for everyone who loves good food!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you need to whip up these delicious Baked Capsicum dishes:
Main Ingredients:
- Capsicums (Bell Peppers) wide strips or quarters (6-8)
- Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic clove minced (1)
- Parsley, finely chopped (2 tablespoons)
Additional Additions and Substitutions:
- Black olives pitted and sliced (½ cup)
- Tuna, drained and chunked (1 can)
Feel free to add other stuffing choices to your bell peppers recipe such as meat, vegetables, cheese, or even fruit! Let your creativity flow in customizing your roasted bell peppers to suit your preference.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients for making these baked capsicums, let’s dive into the recipe how-to.
Step 1: Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
First things first, preheat our ovens to a temperature of 450 degrees, so that the capsicums can cook evenly.
Step2: Cut Bell Peppers Wide Strips or Quarters
On a cutting board, cut the bell peppers into wide strips or quarters according to your preference. With a spoon, remove the seeds and white membrane to create space for fillings.
Step3: Toss with Olive Oil, Salt and Pepper
In a mixing bowl, toss the bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper until all strips are well coated. Afterward, transfer them onto the previously lined baking sheet in a single layer.
Step4: Roast for 20 Minutes.
Pop your baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for approximately 20 minutes. The peppers will start becoming tender while their edges turn slightly charred.
Step5: Stuffing Time!
Take them out from the oven when they are done and get ready for the filling! You can use any filling of your choice like Italian stuffed with ground beef or rice, vegan stuffed with eggplant, southwestern stuffed with chicken and mini peppers. Fill each roasted bell pepper shell with your desired stuffing.
Step 6: Bake Stuffed Peppers again .
Set your oven temperature at 400-degree Fahrenheit this time and put your stuffed bell peppers back in it for another 30-40 minutes until they cook through correctly.
Once they’re thoroughly cooked Serve hot with parsley leaf sprinkles on top along with black olives or tuna salad on the side to complete this heartwarming dish!
This recipe is effortless to follow if you keep track of every step sequentially. In just over an hour, As you perfect each stage along the way you can savor these delicious oven-roasted bell peppers made by yourself right at home!
Substitutions and Variations
Honey, if you’re anything like me, then you know that cooking is all about making it your own. So, let’s talk substitutions and variations for this roasted bell peppers recipe.
First, let’s consider the stuffing. While we’ve used a classic tuna and olive stuffing recipe here, feel free to get creative! You could try italian stuffed peppers with a ground beef or rice stuffing. Or for the veggie heads, vegan stuffed peppers with eggplant and zucchini. And for my spicy lovers, how about southwestern stuffed peppers with black beans and corn? The possibilities are endless!
Next up, the peppers. It’s important to use bell peppers that are wide and deep enough to hold the stuffing. However, if you can’t find any good bell peppers, try mini peppers instead for a cute variation of the dish.
And finally, let’s talk seasoning. While we’ve used oregano in our recipe here to compliment the tuna and olives, don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs! Basil, thyme or even cilantro could be fun options to toss in.
Remember my loves, cooking is all about taking risks and trying something new. Don’t be afraid to make this roasted bell pepper recipe your own by adding ingredients that make your heart sing!
Serving and Pairing
My Baked Capsicum (Bell Peppers) recipe is a divine dish all on its own, but serving and pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. The presentation of this dish is beautiful with its bright colors and tantalizing aromas. It would be a great addition to any dinner party or potluck.
I personally recommend complementing the delicious flavors of this roasted bell pepper recipe with something light and refreshing like a mixed-greens salad tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. The sweetness from the roasted peppers mixed with the tanginess of a well-dressed salad creates an unparalleled balance of flavor.
If you are on the hunt for something slightly heartier, pairing this recipe with a flavorful risotto or steamed rice can do just the trick. A warm, fluffy bed of rice or risotto underneath beautifully roasted peppers can create a soft and savory bite that is sure to impress.
For seafood lovers, baked capsicums (bell peppers) taste great with grilled shrimp or tuna steak. The protein element along with the texture will add an extra layer of excitement to your palate.
Another pairing option is to serve this recipe alongside pita bread as an appetizer. When cut into smaller portions, they make for perfect finger foods.
Remember, my baked stuffed bell peppers are quite versatile, so feel free to mix and match according to your preference. But whatever you choose, make sure that it packs enough flavor to tingle your taste buds and leaves guests feeling satisfied!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve made this delicious bell peppers recipe, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly. Before you do, be sure to let the dish cool down to room temperature. Once it has cooled, if you do have extra stuffed bell peppers, they can easily be refrigerated for later use. Simply place them into an airtight container and store them in your fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat your leftover stuffed peppers recipe, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking dish with some parchment paper and arrange your stuffed bell peppers on top of it. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for around 20 minutes or until the center of the stuffing is hot throughout.
You can also reheat individual portions of these oven roasted bell peppers in the microwave. Simply put one onto a microwave safe plate and heat it up on high for around 30-45 seconds or until the center of the filling is hot throughout.
If you find yourself with more leftover roasted bell peppers than you can handle, consider freezing them instead of letting them go to waste. To freeze these stuffed peppers, wrap each whole pepper individually with plastic wrap then stow them in an airtight bag or container in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready for them take out from the freezer ahead of time and gently reheat using one of methods mentioned above.
Regardless of how you choose to store or reheat your oven roasted Bell Peppers recipe, we recommend against retaining your leftovers beyond three days. The taste and texture will start to degrade and there’s always the chance that the food might spoil if not consumed within that time frame.
Tips for Perfect Results
As an Israeli chef, I believe that attention to detail is essential when it comes to cooking a delicious and flavorful meal. Here are some tips to ensure that your baked capsicum (bell pepper) recipe turns out perfectly every time.
1. Choose the right peppers
When selecting your peppers, look for ones that are firm and without any soft spots or blemishes. It’s best to use peppers that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
2. Cut the peppers uniformly
Cut the peppers into wide strips or quarters that are roughly the same size. This will help them cook evenly and ensure that each bite has the perfect texture.
3. Line the baking sheet
To make cleanup easier, always line your baking sheet with parchment paper before cooking. This will prevent any sticking and keep your pan clean.
4. Use high heat
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for best results. This high heat will ensure that your peppers roast perfectly and develop a delicious char.
5. Don’t overcrowd the pan
Make sure you arrange your pepper pieces in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding can cause the peppers to steam rather than roast, resulting in mushy texture and loss of flavor.
6. Season well
Sprinkle salt, pepper, olive oil and oregano over the peppers before roasting them. The seasoning will help to bring out the natural sweetness of the peppers and add depth of flavor to your dish.
7. Check frequently
Keep an eye on the peppers as they cook – ovens vary, and cooking times can range from 20-40 minutes depending on pepper size and oven temperature. The capsicums should have a slight char on them but still be tender when you remove them from the oven.
By following these simple tips, you are sure to create a perfectly roasted bell pepper dish every time!
FAQ
It’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty! Here are some essential questions and answers that will help you avoid any confusion and make sure your Baked Capsicum (Bell Peppers) turn out perfectly every time. So let’s have a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about roasted bell peppers recipe.
Are bell peppers and Capsicum the same?
Have you ever wondered if capsicum and bell pepper are interchangeable? In America, capsicums are commonly referred to as bell peppers, while in the UK, they are just called “peppers.” Interestingly, capsicums undergo a change in color as they mature – starting green, then turning yellow or orange in intermediate stages. The sweetness of capsicums also increases as they ripen.
How long does it take to roast bell peppers at 400?
Alright, let’s get the oven fired up and ready to go at 400 degrees. Take a baking sheet and give it a light coating of olive oil using a brush. Next, take your peppers and lay them down on the sheet, making sure the stems are positioned to the side. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the peppers cook up for a solid 20 minutes, giving them ample opportunity to roast to perfection.
Can you roast peppers in the oven?
Let’s heat up the oven to 400 degrees and grab a baking sheet that we can cover with aluminum foil, so we don’t have to worry about any pesky clean up. Once all set, let’s gently lay out our peppers on the baking sheet ensuring that they are not piled on top of one another. We now need to broil the peppers until their skin is blistered, but not completely charred to ash white. Don’t forget to turn the peppers occasionally while they’re in the oven to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. This should take roughly 30 to 40 minutes.
How long does it take to bake peppers?
To kick off this mouth-watering recipe, we need to preheat the oven to a blazing hot temperature of 450 degrees Fahrenheit. While we wait for the oven to get heated up, let’s prepare the peppers. Firstly, carefully slice the peppers into wide strips or quarters. Next, thoroughly mix the pepper slices with some olive oil, oregano, kosher salt, and pepper.
To bake these peppers to perfection, let’s line up the baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper. This will ensure they don’t stick to the sheet and burn. With the baking sheet lined up, gently transfer the pepper slices onto it, ensuring they are evenly spaced out. Now, we can begin the roasting process that will perfect their taste and texture. Roast the peppers for 25 to 30 minutes until they are tender, slightly browned, and irresistible!
Bottom Line
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Now that you have all the necessary information about this mouth-watering baked capsicum (bell peppers) recipe, there is no doubt that it’s time to bring out your baking sheet and ingredients and start cooking.
I bet you’ll fall in love with this dish, just like I did when I first tried it. With its rich flavor and nutritional value, this stuffed bell peppers recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a party or a potluck to a simple family dinner or a meal prep.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to find your personal favorite. You can make vegan stuffed, rice stuffed, ground beef stuffed or even mini peppers stuffed. The possibilities are endless.
The beauty of this roasted bell pepper recipe is not just in the taste but also in how easy it is to make. The steps are simple to follow, and the results are satisfyingly delicious.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this oven-roasted bell peppers recipe to anyone who wants to impress their loved ones with a nutritious and appetizing meal that’s easy and quick to make. Enjoy the comforting aroma of garlic and aromatic herbs while cooking these aromatic stuffed peppers!
Baked Capsicum (Bell Peppers) Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 -5 capsicums (bell peppers, red or yellow)
- 1/2 cup tuna (if canned, then in brine, drained)
- 1 -2 cup fresh breadcrumb
- 12 black olives, seedless, chopped
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- salt & freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to gas mark 4/180C/350°F.
- In a bowl, mix the tuna, black olives, grated garlic, chopped parsley and breadcrumbs until you have a smooth mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds but leaving the stalks intact (they are not edible but they do look attractive and they help the pepper halves to keep their shape).
- Stuff each half with 3-4 tbsp of the mixture.
- Place on a well-greased baking tray.
- Drizzle the top with olive oil and bake the capsicums in top shelf of the oven for about 45-50 minutes.
- Remove from oven and transfer them onto a serving dish, with all the juices from the tray poured over the peppers.
- Drizzle with a little more of olive oil if desired.