Sautéed New Green Peppers in a Tomato Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience with our sautéed new green peppers in a tomato sauce recipe. This dish combines the fresh, crisp taste of new green peppers with the rich, savory flavors of a well-seasoned tomato sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For this delectable recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Fresh Ingredients:
- New green peppers – 4 large, sliced
- Tomatoes – 6 medium-sized, finely chopped
- Onions – 2 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic cloves – 4, minced
- Fresh basil – 1/4 cup, chopped
- Parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped
Pantry Staples:
- Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Red pepper flakes – 1 teaspoon (optional for added heat)
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon (to balance the acidity of tomatoes)
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable broth – 1/2 cup
Preparation
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by washing the new green peppers thoroughly. Slice them into thin strips, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Chop the tomatoes finely and set them aside. Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic cloves. Having all the ingredients prepped and ready will streamline the cooking process.
2. Cooking the Peppers
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced green peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and slightly brown. Remove the peppers from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sautéing the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent and begin to caramelize approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes, making sure not to burn the garlic.
4. Adding the Tomatoes
Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the skillet once the onions and garlic are fragrant and slightly golden. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the tomatoes to cook down, releasing their juices, which should take about 10 minutes.
5. Seasoning the Sauce
Add the tomato paste to the skillet, stirring it in thoroughly. This will deepen the flavor of the sauce. Pour in the vegetable broth to add moisture and enhance the overall taste. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
6. Combining the Peppers with the Sauce
Return the sautéed green peppers to the skillet, mixing them into the tomato sauce. Ensure that the peppers are well-coated with the sauce. Allow the mixture to cook together for another 5-7 minutes, so the peppers can absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Finishing Touches
Before serving, stir in the fresh basil and parsley. These herbs will add a burst of freshness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This sautéed new green peppers in a tomato sauce dish can be served in a variety of ways:
- As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a flavorful accompaniment.
- Over Rice or Pasta: Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or cooked pasta for a hearty meal.
- With Crusty Bread: Enjoy it with slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Green Peppers: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of dietary fiber.
- Tomatoes: High in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, and vitamins C and K.
- Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Garlic and Onions: Offer various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Uniform Slicing: Ensure that the peppers and onions are uniformly sliced for even cooking.
- Simmering Time: Allow adequate simmering time for the sauce to develop its full flavor.
- Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or making substitutions:
- Bell Peppers: Substitute or mix in bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top before serving.
- Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for a protein-rich version of the dish.
Conclusion
Our sautéed new green peppers in a tomato sauce recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines fresh, seasonal produce. Whether you are serving it as a side dish, a main course, or incorporating it into other meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the vibrant colors and rich flavors that this dish has to offer!
