Steve'S "Hot" Peppers
A spicy, flavorful appetizer of sautéed hot Italian peppers infused with garlic and olive oil, perfect for serving on crackers with cheese and bread for a bold snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine peppers and olive oil in a frying pan.
- Heat to medium heat.
- Chop garlic and add to the pan.
- Flip peppers and rotate until all peppers are completely soft all the way through.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder as you rotate peppers.
- Remove cooked peppers from the pan.
- Put peppers in a bowl.
- Drain 90% of the oil from the pan and pour the remaining oil and garlic over the peppers.
- Slice the peppers and serve on crackers with cheese.
- Spread garlic oil on bread and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or using a mix of sweet and hot peppers. If you don't have garlic powder, fresh garlic works well; just adjust the amount to taste. Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil for a different flavor profile. For a twist, try adding herbs like oregano or basil from Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peppers on a platter with a selection of crackers and slices of sharp Cheddar cheese for a delightful appetizer. Pair with a light salad or Cream Of Tomato Soup With Parmesan Cheese for a complete meal. These peppers also make a great topping for sandwiches or can be enjoyed alongside pasta for a flavorful side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil, or microwave them in short bursts to avoid overcooking. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making them even more delicious!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steve'S "Hot" Peppers contains roughly 956 calories, with 17g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 871mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe with other types of peppers?
Absolutely! While hot Italian green frying peppers give this dish its signature heat, you can substitute with banana peppers or even bell peppers for a milder version. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pepper you choose, as some may soften faster than others.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peppers in advance. After cooking, let them cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently and drizzle with the reserved garlic oil. This makes it a great option for entertaining or meal prep!
What kind of crackers work best with these peppers?
Opt for sturdy crackers that can hold up to the toppings, such as water crackers or whole grain varieties. They provide a nice contrast to the softness of the peppers and cheese. Experimenting with flavored crackers can also add an interesting twist to your serving experience!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).