Sweet Red Pepper Salad
A vibrant and smoky red pepper salad with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect as a light side or appetizer for summer gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place whole peppers on a broiler pan 4 inches from the heat and broil until skins blister, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Rotate peppers slightly with tongs and continue broiling until all sides are blistered and lightly blackened.
- Place peppers in a brown paper bag, close the bag, and let stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Peel off the charred skin and discard; remove stems and seeds from the peppers.
- Cut peppers into 1/4 inch wide strips.
- In a shallow container, combine olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, and salt.
- Add the peppers to the oil mixture and toss to coat.
- Cover and chill for 3 to 4 hours before serving.
- Serve on lettuce leaves if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the oil mixture. If you don't have fresh parsley, basil or cilantro can be excellent substitutes. Broiling the peppers can also be done on a grill for added char. If you're short on time, jarred roasted red peppers can be used, though the flavor will be less vibrant compared to fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Red Pepper Salad pairs beautifully with Roasted Vegetable Salad or can be served alongside grilled meats for a colorful meal. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own with some crusty bread. It also makes a great topping for sandwiches or wraps. Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Avoid reheating as the peppers can become mushy; instead, enjoy them cold or at room temperature. If using lettuce leaves, store them separately to maintain freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Red Pepper Salad contains roughly 201 calories, with 7g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 556mg per serving (24% 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 use other types of peppers?
Absolutely! While sweet red peppers are the star here, you can mix in yellow or orange bell peppers for a rainbow effect. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly with different peppers, so choose according to your preference.
How long should I let the peppers cool in the bag?
Letting the peppers cool in the bag for 15 to 20 minutes helps steam them, making the skins easier to peel. This step is crucial for achieving that tender texture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like olives, feta cheese, or even a splash of lemon juice for added zest. This salad is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste, making it a great addition to Mediterranean recipes.
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).