BBQ & Grilling, Side Dishes
Grilled Peppers Easy How To Recipe
Grilled peppers bring delightful flavor to any meal, from barbecues to cozy gatherings. This recipe is simple and easy, guiding you to achieve perfectly grilled peppers bursting with smoky goodness. With just a few ingredients and minutes on the grill, you’ll have a versatile side dish. Whether as an appetizer or a complement to your main course, these grilled peppers will satisfy your taste buds.
So let’s fire up the grill, gather the ingredients, and let’s get started! If you are looking for other delicious plant-based items to BBQ, you can check out my full vegan grilling recipe collection here.
Ingredients & Substitutions to Make Grilled Peppers
To prepare the Grilled Peppers, you will need the following ingredients: bell peppers, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper.
When it comes to bell peppers, opt for large ones that are vibrant and firm. While we suggest using extra virgin olive oil, feel free to substitute with your preferred oil, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil. As for seasoning, salt and pepper are the classic choices, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. If you can’t find large bell peppers, try using different varieties like red, yellow, or orange peppers to add a colorful touch to your grilled dish. Additionally, by swapping out the olive oil and adjusting the seasonings, you can personalize the flavors to your liking.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. The goal is to enjoy the process of preparing and grilling these peppers, experimenting with different flavors and combinations. So gather your preferred ingredients, and keep reading to learn how to make grilled peppers!
Helpful Tools
- Grill: A grill is the centerpiece of this recipe, whether it’s a gas grill, charcoal grill, or an indoor grill pan. Ensure that your grill is clean and well-maintained before starting the cooking process.
- Tongs: Long-handled tongs are incredibly useful for flipping the peppers on the grill. They provide a firm grip and help you maneuver the peppers with ease, ensuring even cooking and preventing any accidents.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl is handy for tossing the cut peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper. It allows for easy and uniform coating of the peppers before they go on the grill.
- Basting Brush: If you choose to add a balsamic reduction or any other glaze to your grilled peppers, a basting brush is helpful for applying the sauce evenly. It ensures a flavorful and visually appealing finish.
How to Make Grilled Peppers
Start by preheating your grill to medium/high heat, around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the grill is hot and ready for cooking the peppers.
Cut each bell pepper in half and remove the stems, seeds, and pith. Cut each half in half again, so you have four equal slices from each bell pepper. This preparation allows for even grilling and easy serving.
Place the cut peppers in a medium mixing bowl. Add extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Gently stir the peppers to coat them evenly with the oil and seasonings. This step ensures that the peppers are well-seasoned and ready for grilling.
Carefully place each pepper slice on the grill. Close the lid and let them grill undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes or until grill marks appear. Once the first side is grilled, flip the peppers using tongs and grill the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes. This grilling process creates a smoky flavor and brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers.
Once the peppers are grilled to your desired tenderness, transfer them to a serving platter. You can serve them as they are, showcasing their delicious simplicity, or as a side to grilled tofu. Alternatively, for added flavor, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the grilled peppers and sprinkle a little vegan feta cheese on top. These optional additions enhance the taste and presentation of the dish.
Tips & Tricks For Perfect Grilled Peppers
- Choose the right peppers: Opt for large, vibrant, and firm bell peppers for grilling. They should have smooth skin and feel heavy for their size. This ensures that the peppers hold their shape during grilling and have a pleasant texture.
- Oil the grill grates: Before placing the peppers on the grill, oil the grates to prevent sticking. Use a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil and rub it over the grates. This helps the peppers cook evenly and makes flipping them easier.
- Preheat the grill properly: Make sure to preheat the grill to the recommended temperature before placing the peppers on it. This ensures that the peppers cook quickly and develop those desirable grill marks.
- Grill with the lid closed: Closing the grill lid while cooking the peppers helps to retain the heat and create a smokier flavor. It also promotes even cooking by circulating the heat around the peppers.
- Don’t overcook the peppers: Grilled peppers taste best when they are slightly tender and retain some crispness. Avoid overcooking them, as they may become mushy and lose their vibrant color and texture.
- Experiment with seasonings: While salt and pepper are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of your favorite herb blend to elevate the flavors of the grilled peppers.
- Repurpose leftovers: If you have any leftover grilled peppers, don’t let them go to waste! They can be used in sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, or as a topping for pizzas. Their smoky flavor adds a delightful twist to various recipes.
FAQ: Easy Grilled Peppers Recipe
Yes, you can grill the peppers indoors using a grill pan or a stovetop grill. Make sure to preheat the grill pan over medium/high heat and follow the same instructions as for an outdoor grill.
The peppers are done when they are slightly tender and have developed grill marks. The timing can vary depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of the peppers. Keep a close eye on them, and they are usually ready in about 4-5 minutes per side.
Yes, you can prepare the peppers in advance by cutting and seasoning them. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This can save you time when you’re hosting a gathering or have a busy schedule.
If you have any leftover grilled peppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated briefly on the grill or stovetop when you’re ready to serve them again.
Grilled peppers can be frozen, but keep in mind that their texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating or using them in recipes.
While the oil helps in grilling and adds flavor, you can certainly grill the peppers without it. Just make sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
Grilled Peppers Easy How To Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 2-4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the grill on medium/high heat (around 375-400 degrees)
- Cut each bell pepper in half and remove the stems, seeds and pith. Cut in half again. (You should get 4 equal slices per 1 bell pepper.)
- Place cut peppers in a medium mixing bowl, add olive oil, salt and pepper and stir gently to combine.
- Place each pepper on the grill, close the lid and allow it to grill undisturbed for 4-5 minutes or until grill marks appear. Flip the peppers and allow the other side to cook for another 4-5 mins.
- Serve them as is, or add a drizzle of balsamic reduction and a little vegan feta cheese on top. Enjoy!
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Conclusion
Grilled peppers are a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe guides you through the steps to achieve perfectly grilled peppers that are bursting with smoky goodness. Whether enjoyed on their own or used in various recipes, these versatile peppers are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to steal the show at your next BBQ!
This was great thank you very informative with great information. Was looking for a simple pepper grilling tutorial.
Thanks so much Cassidy, so glad your grilled peppers turned out!