Sauteed Bell Peppers And Onions Recipe
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Sauteed Bell Peppers and Onions make a flavorful and vibrant side dish that’s as versatile as it is easy to prepare. With sweet bell peppers, savory onions, and a hint of tangy tomato, this dish pairs beautifully with almost any main course. Serve it warm from the stovetop or chilled as a make-ahead appetizer, and enjoy this simple yet delicious vegetable medley for your next meal!
Why You’ll Love Sauteed Bell Peppers and Onions
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires only simple ingredients and a few quick steps, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a fast side dish.
- Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, pasta, or rice, these bell peppers and onions complement a variety of dishes and cuisines.
- Great Make-Ahead Option: This dish actually tastes better the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen, which makes it an ideal make-ahead recipe for meal prep or entertaining.
- Packed with Flavor: With a mix of sweet bell peppers, savory onions, and a hint of tangy tomato, every bite bursts with well-balanced flavors.
- Healthy and Light: Made with fresh vegetables and a minimal amount of oil, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying without being heavy.
Sauteed bell peppers and onions make a very tasty appetizer or side dish. This bell peppers and onions recipe is very easy – first, you slice bell peppers and onions, then pan-fry them in a little oil and then simmer with chopped tomatoes and seasonings. The resulting bell pepper dish is extremely tasty – even people who don’t like most vegetables like these bell peppers and onions.
You can serve this bell peppers and onions dish either hot or cold. If you made it right before dinner, you can serve it hot, then refrigerate the rest and serve these peppers cold the following day. You can make these peppers and onions several days in advance as they get even better the next day!
Sauteed Bell Peppers And Onions Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
- 5 bell peppers – Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for a colorful dish and balanced sweetness.
- 3 onions – Adds savory depth to the dish and complements the sweetness of the peppers.
- 3 tbsp oil – Helps to cook the vegetables evenly, adding a slight richness to the flavors.
- 1/2 cup ketchup – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet tomato base to bring everything together.
- 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- 4 tsp sugar – Balances the acidity from the tomatoes and vinegar with a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tsp garlic powder – Adds a mild garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tbsp white vinegar – Adds a subtle tang that brightens up the dish and enhances flavors.
- 1 can (14 oz) of chopped tomatoes – Adds texture and richness, blending well with the peppers and onions.
For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Sauteed Bell Peppers and Onions
- Large Non-Stick Frying Pan – For cooking the peppers and onions evenly without sticking.
- Cutting Board – Essential for safely slicing the peppers and onions.
- Knife – For cutting the vegetables into strips.
- Measuring Spoons – To measure out the oil, vinegar, and seasonings precisely.
Instructions How To Make Bell Peppers And Onions
- Slice the onions.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, stir, and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.
- While the onions are cooking, slice the bell peppers (cut them in half, scoop out the seeds with a spoon and discard the seeds, then slice the peppers). Add bell peppers to the frying pan and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.
- Mix ketchup, salt, garlic powder, sugar and vinegar and add to the peppers and onions. Add chopped tomatoes and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Pictures Of Sauteed Bell Peppers And Onions
Onion slices go in a frying pan:
Colorful red yellow and orange bell peppers, ready to be sliced:
Bell pepper slices:
Bell peppers added to the onions in the frying pan:
Russian Bell Peppers And Onions Appetizer – All Done!
And here’s another picture of sauteed bell peppers and onions on a plate:
Another great recipe to make with bell peppers is stuffed bell peppers recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- These sauteed bell peppers and onions go perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops, adding a sweet and tangy contrast.
- Use them as a flavorful topping for chicken sandwiches, burgers, or even tacos for a burst of color and taste.
- Mix with cooked cheesy taco pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan for an easy, delicious pasta dish.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs or as a topping for an omelet to add some veggie goodness to your morning.
- Chill them and serve as a colorful, refreshing side salad for any meal or gathering.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers give the best flavor and texture. Choose firm peppers with vibrant colors for a visually appealing and delicious dish.
- Slice Evenly: Try to slice the onions and peppers into similar-sized strips to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents any pieces from overcooking or staying too crisp.
- Cook at the Right Heat: Start by cooking the onions and peppers over medium-high heat to get a nice, slightly caramelized exterior. Then, lower the heat for simmering to let all the flavors meld together without overcooking.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Simmering the dish at the end with the ketchup and tomatoes allows the vegetables to soak up all the flavors, creating a rich, tangy taste. Covering the pan during this step keeps everything tender and juicy.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: This recipe balances sweetness, saltiness, and tanginess, but feel free to adjust to your taste preferences. Add a little extra vinegar for more tang, or reduce the sugar if you prefer it less sweet.
Variations and Substitutions
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño pepper along with the bell peppers if you enjoy a little heat in your dishes.
- Use Different Vinegars: Substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a unique flavor twist. Apple cider vinegar will add a slightly sweeter tang, while balsamic will add depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Try Different Peppers: While bell peppers provide sweetness and color, you can experiment with poblano or Anaheim peppers for a mildly spicy kick or add green bell peppers for a slightly bitter edge.
- Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Stir in fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. These add an Italian-inspired flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes.
- Lower the Sugar Content: If you prefer a less sweet taste, reduce the sugar or try a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Oil-Free: For a lighter version, sauté the vegetables in a little water or vegetable broth instead of oil. This keeps it low-calorie while still achieving a tasty result.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. These peppers and onions taste even better the next day as the flavors deepen over time.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled peppers and onions in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until hot. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bell peppers and onions?
Yes, you can use frozen peppers and onions, but keep in mind that they may release extra moisture as they cook. Simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and achieve the desired texture.
What type of tomatoes work best in this recipe?
Canned chopped tomatoes work well for this dish, adding a rich, slightly saucy base. You can also use fresh tomatoes, especially if they’re ripe and juicy, though the texture may vary slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for making in advance, as the flavors intensify over time. Store in the refrigerator and enjoy cold or reheat before serving, depending on your preference.
How can I add protein to this dish?
To make this a complete meal, try adding cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Simply cook the protein separately and mix it in at the end.
Is there a way to make this dish lower in carbs?
This recipe is naturally low in carbs due to the bell peppers and onions. To lower the sugar content, consider reducing or omitting the sugar and using a low-carb ketchup if desired.
Other Easy Bell Pepper Recipes
Charred Bell Peppers on the Grill: These grilled bell peppers are smoky and slightly sweet, perfect as a side dish or topping for burgers and salads.
Crispy Air Fryer Bell Peppers: Enjoy crunchy and flavorful bell peppers made effortlessly in the air fryer, a healthy snack or side in minutes.
Keto-Friendly Turkey-Stuffed Bell Pepper Halves: These turkey-stuffed bell peppers are a low-carb delight, packed with juicy ground turkey and savory spices.
Spicy Fajita Pasta with Peppers, Onions, and Cheese: This vibrant fajita pasta is bursting with spicy flavors, tender peppers, and a rich, cheesy sauce.
Other Easy Onion Recipes
Creamy Scallion Dip: This scallion dip is creamy and tangy with fresh green onion flavor, perfect for pairing with chips or veggies.
Air Fryer Caramelized Mushrooms and Onions: Enjoy perfectly caramelized mushrooms and onions from the air fryer, a savory addition to any meal.
Tangy Mexican Pickled Onions: These pickled red onions bring a tangy, spicy crunch that’s perfect for tacos, salads, or grilled meats.
Sauteed Bell Peppers and Onions Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 bell peppers red, yellow, and orange for color
- 3 onions
- 3 tbsp oil
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
Instructions
- Slice the onions.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
- While the onions are cooking, prepare the bell peppers by slicing them in half, removing the seeds, and then slicing them into strips.
- Add the bell pepper slices to the frying pan with the onions, and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the ketchup, salt, garlic powder, sugar, and vinegar until well combined.
- Pour the ketchup mixture and chopped tomatoes into the frying pan with the bell peppers and onions. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve hot or let cool and refrigerate for later. Enjoy!
Notes
- These sauteed bell peppers and onions taste even better the next day, so feel free to make them in advance.
