Chopped Bell Pepper Vegetarian Recipe for Easy Meals

Bell peppers are one of the most vibrant and versatile vegetables you can add to your vegetarian meals. Their sweet, slightly tangy flavor and crisp texture make them a delightful addition to countless dishes.

Today, we’re diving into a simple yet flavorful chopped bell pepper vegetarian recipe that celebrates the freshness and natural sweetness of these colorful veggies. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a healthy snack, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.

Chopped bell peppers not only add a pop of color to your plate but also provide essential vitamins like A and C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. This recipe is perfect for those who want to eat clean without sacrificing taste.

Plus, it’s highly customizable, making it a great base for experimenting with your favorite herbs, spices, and other vegetables.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, this chopped bell pepper dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chopped bell pepper vegetarian recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Here’s why it stands out:

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting your overall health.
• Versatile: Can be served as a side, tossed into salads, or used as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
• Colorful and appetizing: The mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers makes any meal visually appealing.
• Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite herbs, spices, or add-ins like beans or grains.

Ingredients

• 3 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), chopped
• 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1/4 cup cooked chickpeas (optional for added protein)

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Bowl for mixing
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash all bell peppers thoroughly. Remove the stems and seeds, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Chop the red onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the olive oil: Place the skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for about a minute.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped red onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the chopped bell peppers: Toss the chopped peppers into the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften but still retain some crunch.
5. Season the mixture: Sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the peppers. Stir thoroughly to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
6. Add diced tomatoes and chickpeas: Stir in the fresh tomato and cooked chickpeas (if using). Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and blend with the peppers.
7. Finish with fresh herbs and lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture. Give everything a final stir to combine.
8. Serve warm: Transfer the chopped bell pepper mixture to a serving bowl or plate. Enjoy it as is, or use it as a topping for grains, tacos, or salads.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try roasting the bell peppers before chopping them. This adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish.”

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced jalapeño peppers to the sauté for some heat.
• Boost protein: Incorporate cooked quinoa, black beans, or tofu to make this a more filling main dish.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts on top before serving.
• Change up the herbs: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or parsley depending on your preference.
• Use different spices: Try curry powder or Italian seasoning for varied flavor profiles.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chopped bell pepper dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with many meals. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve it warm alongside brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
• Use as a topping for whole wheat pita bread or stuffed into wraps for a quick lunch.
• Mix into a leafy green salad for added texture and flavor.
• Pair with roasted potatoes or a baked sweet potato for a comforting dinner.
• Use as a fresh side dish with your favorite grilled vegetables or plant-based proteins.

For more vegetable-forward meals, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, which is perfect for seasonal cooking. If you enjoy bold flavors, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe adds a spicy touch to your dishes.

For a delicious dessert to complement your meal, try the creamy and decadent Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Conclusion

Chopped bell peppers are a fantastic way to brighten up your vegetarian meals with their vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also nutritionally rich, making it a perfect choice for healthy eating.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish offers flexibility and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

By incorporating fresh herbs, spices, and optional protein sources like chickpeas, you can transform this basic recipe into a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover bell peppers in your fridge.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy the burst of flavor and nutrition it brings to your table. Happy cooking!

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