How to Make Roasted Bell Pepper Antipasti

Roasted Bell Pepper Antipasti

Roasted bell pepper antipasti is a popular dish that’s delicious on its own and pairs perfectly with a variety of meals, from sandwiches and salads to hot meat or vegetarian dishes. It’s easy to prepare in any home kitchen using an oven, toaster oven, grill, or even direct flame.

Ingredients

Bell peppers – Any quantity you prefer
Cooking oil – As needed
Olive oil – For added flavor
Coarse salt and ground black pepper – To taste

Preparation Steps

1. Wash the peppers:
Before starting, rinse the peppers thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.

2. Slice or leave whole:

For sliced peppers: Cut into strips or desired shapes, keeping size consistent for even cooking.
For whole roasted peppers: Leave them whole, and Skip to step 5.

3. Seasoning (for sliced peppers):

Place the sliced peppers in a mixing bowl.
Add cooking oil first, followed by a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.
Sprinkle with coarse salt, ground black pepper, and your choice of fresh or dried herbs.
Toss well to coat the peppers evenly with the seasoning.

4. Roasting:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Arrange the seasoned peppers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 10–15 minutes for sliced peppers or until tender and slightly charred.

5. For whole peppers:

Place directly on the baking tray.
Roast for longer, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly charred.
Once roasted, transfer to a sealed container to cool for a few minutes. This step helps loosen the skin, making it easier to peel.

Serving Suggestions

Peel whole roasted peppers carefully without rinsing under water to retain flavor. Slice as desired before serving.
For an extra burst of flavor, season whole roasted peppers with olive oil and salt after peeling.
Add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.

Storing Roasted Bell Pepper Antipasti

Allow the antipasti to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for several days. Roasted bell peppers can be served cold or at room temperature, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.