So Why are Bell Peppers Good for You?
In addition to tasting great and adding flavor to dishes, bell peppers are a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, folate, and dietary fiber. They also contain small amounts of other important nutrients such as potassium, iron, and magnesium.
Bell peppers are also high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. Additionally, they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for overall health.
Overall, including bell peppers in your diet can be a healthy choice, as they provide a variety of important nutrients and may offer several health benefits.
7 Recipes you can make with Bell Peppers
There are countless delicious recipes that can be made with bell peppers, but here are seven recipe ideas:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and roasted red peppers. Blend until smooth, and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve with pita chips or raw vegetables for a healthy snack or appetizer.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cut the top off of bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a separate bowl, mix together cooked rice, ground beef, diced onions, diced tomatoes, and your choice of seasonings. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and bake in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Bell Pepper and Onion Fajitas: Slice bell peppers and onions into thin strips. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté the peppers and onions until they are slightly softened. Add in sliced chicken or beef, and season with fajita seasoning. Serve with tortillas, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Grilled Stuffed Peppers: Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Fill the peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, diced tomatoes, ground beef, and cheese. Grill the stuffed peppers until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Bell Pepper Pizza: Cut bell peppers into rounds and top with your favorite pizza toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, and vegetables. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Bell Pepper Salad: Slice bell peppers into thin strips and mix with your choice of salad greens, such as lettuce or spinach. Top with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.
- Bell Pepper Stir-Fry: Slice bell peppers into thin strips and stir-fry with your choice of protein, such as chicken, beef, or tofu. Add in sliced onions, garlic, and ginger, and season with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili flakes. Serve over rice or noodles.
These are just a few examples of the many ways you can use bell peppers in your cooking. Bell peppers are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, so feel free to get creative in the kitchen!