How to Choose, Prepare and Store Bell Peppers
Is there a difference between different colored bell peppers?
Green bell peppers are harvested before they are ripe. As green peppers mature, they turn yellow, orange then red as they reach the peak of maturity.
Bell peppers are a great source of antioxidants, folate, potassium and vitamin C. However, each color of pepper vary slightly in nutritional content and taste. For example, red bell peppers have twice as much vitamin C, eleven times more beta carotene and nine times more lycopene than green peppers because the pepper was left to mature on the plant. Orange, yellow and red peppers also taste sweeter than the green ones. All whole medium peppers are around 24 calories.
Why do other types of pepper cost more?
Yellow, orange and red peppers cost more because they require more time before they can be harvested.
How do I choose which pepper to buy?
Color and taste is a matter of preference. When buying bell peppers, pick one that is shiny and firm. Avoid pale green peppers or peppers that have shriveled skin or spots.
How do I prepare bell peppers for cooking or eating?
Preparing bell peppers for cooking or eating is very easy. How you’re going to cut the bell pepper will vary based on what you want to do with it, but it boils down to a few steps:
Instructions
Wash the pepper in cold water and use a knife to cut the pepper lengthwise in half (from the stem down).
Inside you’ll see the core of the pepper with little seeds. Remove the core and the seeds.
Trim the top and bottom of the pepper. Make sure you trim the stem off completely.
Slice, chop, dice or julienne and incorporate into your favorite dishes!
Where should I store my peppers?
Storing bell peppers in the refrigerator will prolong its freshness.
How do I incorporate bell peppers into my diet?
Bell peppers are versatile. They can be eaten raw, roasted, grilled or sauteed. My favorite is roasting them at a high temperature (around 450 to 500 degrees) because it brings out the sweetness in them!
Remember to tag your creations with #ourbeetlife!
Disclaimer - This is not a sponsored post. We are not affiliated with any products or brands shown or mentioned in this post and we did not receive any compensation for writing this post at the time of writing.