How to Pick the Best Peppers

Picking peppers is simple! Follow these steps to ensure you select the best fruits:

  1. Look for vibrant colors:

    • Choose peppers that are bright and shiny. 
    • Bell peppers can be green, red, yellow, or orange or purple.

  2. Check for firmness:

    • Gently squeeze the pepper; it should feel firm with no soft spots.

  3. Size matters:

    • For bell peppers, choose ones that are medium to large. For jalapeños, pick peppers that are about 4-6 inches long for optimal flavor.

  4. Twist and pull:

    • To harvest, gently twist the pepper and pull it from the plant, being careful not to damage the stem.

Nutritional Benefits

Peppers are not just colorful; they’re packed with nutrients! Here’s what makes them a great addition to your diet:

  • High in Vitamins: Especially vitamin C, which supports your immune system and skin health.
  • Low in Calories: A healthy, low-calorie option for adding flavor to meals.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Bell peppers contain various antioxidants that can help fight inflammation.

How to Store Your Peppers

After harvesting, follow these storage tips to keep your peppers fresh:

  1. Refrigerate:

    • Store peppers in the vegetable crisper of your fridge, ideally in a paper bag or perforated plastic bag to allow airflow.

  2. Use promptly:

    • For the best flavor and texture, try to use fresh peppers within a week of harvesting.

Easy Ways to Preserve Peppers

Love peppers? Here are some simple preservation methods:

  1. Freezing:

    • Slice or chop peppers and spread them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to freezer bags for later use.

  2. Pickling:

    • Slice peppers and soak them in a vinegar solution with spices for a tangy, preserved treat.

Easy Recipes Starring Bell Peppers

Fajitas

Ingredients:

  • 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 lb chicken or beef, sliced
  • 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
  • Tortillas

Directions:

  1. In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced meat and cook until browned.
  3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and fajita seasoning, stirring until veggies are tender.
  4. Serve in warm tortillas.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

  • 4 bell peppers
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup cooked ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • Cheese (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. Mix cooked rice, meat, and tomato sauce in a bowl.
  4. Stuff the mixture into the peppers, top with cheese if desired.
  5. Place in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes. Enjoy!