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Traditional Italian Peperonata (Classic Pepper Stew)

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Traditional Italian Peperonata is a colorful and comforting pepper stew made with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Slowly cooked until tender and rich, it’s perfect served warm or cold as a side, topping, or light vegetarian meal.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

  • 3 large bell peppers (about 750 g), sliced into strips
  • 2 medium onions (about 300 g), thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic (about 9 g), finely chopped
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes (about 300 g), peeled and chopped or 1 cup (240 g) canned chopped tomatoes
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash, seed, and slice the bell peppers into strips.
  2. Peel and thinly slice the onions. Finely chop the garlic.
  3. If using fresh tomatoes, peel and chop them. Remove seeds if preferred.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add onions and cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and translucent.
  6. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Add chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  9. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peppers are very tender and sauce is thick.
  10. Uncover, taste, and adjust seasoning. Add vinegar and herbs if using. Serve warm or cold.

Notes

  • Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for best flavor and color.
  • Peperonata tastes even better after resting for a few hours or overnight.
  • Add capers, olives, or chili flakes for variations.
  • Use canned tomatoes when fresh ones are out of season.
  • Serve with crusty bread, grilled meats, or eggs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/traditional-italian-peperonata-classic-pepper-stew/