Peperonata: A Delightful Italian Pepper Stew Recipe
Category: Side Dish
Serves: 4
Peperonata is a classic Italian side dish that brings together the rich flavors of sweet peppers, tender onions, and savory tomato sauce, all cooked to perfection in olive oil. Whether served as a companion to grilled meats, added to sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own, this dish is both comforting and full of vibrant flavors. The slow-cooked blend of ingredients creates a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy stew that perfectly complements a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bell Peppers (preferably red or yellow) | 1 kg |
| Red Onions (Tropea variety if available) | 400g |
| Tomato Passata (strained tomato sauce) | 400g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 40g |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 whole |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25g |
| Fats | ~6g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sugars | ~10g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
To start, carefully wash and dry the bell peppers. Slice them vertically, removing the core and any white membranes inside, then cut them into thin strips. The thinner you slice them, the better they will absorb the flavors of the sauce during cooking.
Next, peel and thinly slice the red onions. Red onions bring a natural sweetness to this dish, balancing perfectly with the peppers and tomatoes.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Onions
In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic cloves, leaving them whole. Let them sizzle for a minute or so, releasing their aromatic flavor into the oil. Be careful not to burn the garlic—its flavor can become bitter if overcooked.
Add the sliced onions to the pan. Stir occasionally, letting the onions soften and cook down for about 10-15 minutes. The onions should be tender and translucent, and they will begin to release their natural sweetness as they caramelize.
Step 3: Cook the Peppers
Once the onions are softened, it’s time to add the bell peppers. Toss them gently in the oil and onions, making sure they are evenly coated. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and allow the peppers to cook gently for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, making sure the vegetables don’t stick to the bottom of the pan. The peppers should soften and begin to release their juices, which will form the base of the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce
After the peppers have softened, pour in the tomato passata (strained tomato sauce). Stir to combine all the ingredients. Cover the pan again and allow everything to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The tomatoes will break down into a rich sauce, and the peppers will continue to absorb all the wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serve
Taste your peperonata and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if desired, and feel free to drizzle a little extra olive oil for richness. Once the dish is finished, remove the garlic cloves—by now, they will have softened and infused the dish with their flavor.
Your peperonata is now ready to be served! It’s great as a side dish with grilled meats, as a topping for bruschetta, or even mixed with pasta. It can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone vegetarian dish with some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips for the Best Peperonata:
- Peppers: You can use a mix of colored bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange) for a visually stunning dish, but red peppers are particularly sweet and flavorful.
- Slow Cooking: The longer you allow the peppers and onions to cook together, the more developed and rich the flavor will be. Don’t rush it—let the natural sweetness of the vegetables come out with slow cooking.
- Serving: This dish can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dish for parties or gatherings.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper, or sauté a sliced chili pepper with the onions.
Peperonata is a versatile and mouthwatering dish that adds a touch of Italy to your table. Simple yet full of flavor, it’s a perfect addition to any meal—whether you’re serving it as a side or turning it into a main dish with some crusty bread.
