Roasted Red Peppers with Garlic

Bright, sweet, and slightly smoky, roasted red peppers are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. When paired with garlic, they become a flavorful and aromatic dish that can be served as a side, appetizer, or even a topping for grilled meats and toasted bread. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also healthy and versatile. With a few simple ingredients and a little attention to detail, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before you begin, gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. For this recipe, you will need:

4 large red bell peppers
4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

These ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens and form the base of many Mediterranean dishes. The red peppers provide natural sweetness, while the garlic adds a bold, savory depth.

Selecting and Preparing the Red Peppers

Select firm, glossy red bell peppers with vibrant color and no soft spots. The fresher the peppers, the better the texture and flavor after roasting. Rinse the peppers under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Once cleaned, you have two main options for roasting: whole or halved. Roasting whole peppers allows the skin to blister evenly, which makes peeling easier. However, halving the peppers can speed up the cooking process. For this recipe, we recommend roasting them whole for the best texture and flavor.

Roasting the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole red peppers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Position them in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other too closely. This allows hot air to circulate evenly.

Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them every 7 to 10 minutes using tongs. The goal is to achieve an even char on all sides. The skin should darken and blister, and the peppers will begin to collapse slightly as they cook. The aroma of roasting peppers will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.

Alternatively, you can roast the peppers over an open flame on a gas stove or grill. Hold each pepper with tongs and rotate it directly over the flame until the skin is blackened and blistered on all sides. This method adds a more pronounced smoky flavor.

Steaming and Peeling the Peppers

After roasting, transfer the hot peppers to a large bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let them steam for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps separate the skin from the flesh, making peeling much easier.

Once the peppers have cooled enough to handle, gently peel off the charred skin using your fingers or a small paring knife. Avoid rinsing them under water, as this can wash away some of the flavorful oils. Instead, use a paper towel to remove stubborn bits of skin if necessary.

Cut each peeled pepper open and remove the stem, seeds, and inner membranes. Slice the peppers into thin strips about half an inch wide. Set them aside in a bowl, ready to absorb the flavors of the garlic and olive oil.

Preparing the Garlic and Olive Oil

In a small saucepan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should soften and turn a light golden color, releasing its full aroma into the oil. Be careful not to overcook it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and overpower the dish.

Once the garlic is perfectly cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool slightly, allowing the flavors to meld and the oil to infuse with the garlic essence. This infused oil will serve as the dressing for the roasted peppers, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a savory depth.

Assembling the Dish

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted pepper strips with the garlic-infused olive oil. Toss gently to coat the peppers evenly. If desired, add a splash of red wine vinegar to brighten the flavors and provide a subtle tang. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Let the peppers sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and mingle, resulting in a more complex and satisfying taste. If preparing the dish in advance, cover and refrigerate it. Bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted red peppers with garlic are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as an appetizer with slices of crusty bread, such as ciabatta or baguette. The bread soaks up the flavorful oil, creating a delicious bite with every piece.

They also make an excellent side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. The sweetness of the peppers and the richness of the garlic oil complement a wide range of main courses. For a vegetarian option, pair them with hummus, olives, and feta cheese to create a Mediterranean mezze platter.

For a more creative use, layer the roasted peppers on sandwiches or paninis. Add fresh mozzarella and basil for a Mediterranean-inspired twist. They can even be used as a topping for pizzas or mixed into pasta dishes for added color and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to five days. The flavors may even deepen over time, making them even more delicious. Be sure to use a clean fork or spoon each time to prevent contamination.

You can also preserve roasted red peppers by storing them in a jar with olive oil. This method not only extends their shelf life but also creates a flavorful oil that can be used in dressings, marinades, or drizzled over vegetables and meats.

Health Benefits of This Dish

Roasted red peppers with garlic are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, which support immune health and protect against inflammation. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial and heart-healthy properties, including reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, provides healthy monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health. When combined, these ingredients create a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Look for peppers that are firm and unblemished, and choose garlic cloves that are plump and free from green sprouts. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil, as its flavor plays a crucial role in the final dish.

Do not rush the roasting process. Allow the peppers to develop a full char so that the skins peel off easily and the flesh becomes tender and sweet. Take care when cooking the garlic to avoid burning, which can spoil the flavor of the oil.

If you’re short on time, many grocery stores offer roasted red peppers in jars. While convenient, homemade versions typically offer better flavor and texture. However, jarred roasted peppers can still be enhanced with freshly cooked garlic and olive oil for a quick alternative.

Adding Your Own Twist

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with additional flavors. Add capers or chopped olives for a briny contrast. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add creaminess and tang. For a touch of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a thinly sliced chili pepper when cooking the garlic.

Herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano can also be added to the oil infusion for an aromatic lift. These additions can help personalize the dish and adapt it to your taste preferences or the flavor profile of your meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weekday meal, or looking for a healthy snack, roasted red peppers with garlic are a dependable choice. Their bold flavors and vibrant colors make them appealing to both the eyes and the palate. They can be made ahead of time, served warm or cold, and paired with a variety of dishes.

This dish showcases the essence of Mediterranean cooking—simple ingredients combined thoughtfully to create something memorable. With just a few steps and minimal equipment, you can bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

Roasted red peppers with garlic are a celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional Mediterranean flavors. They are easy to prepare, nutritious, and adaptable to many uses. Whether served on their own or as part of a larger meal, they provide a burst of color and taste that elevates any dining experience. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that make this dish a timeless favorite.

Roasted Red Peppers with Garlic