Description
Delicious and colorful roasted mini bell peppers, perfectly tender with a slight char, enhanced by a tangy balsamic garlic dressing and fresh basil garnish. This easy oven-roasted side dish brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers and pairs beautifully with bread, cheese, or served as a vibrant appetizer.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 1.5-2 lbs mini bell peppers (washed and dry)
Seasoning & Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a hot environment for roasting the peppers evenly.
- Prepare Peppers: Place the washed and dried mini bell peppers in a large 9×13 baking dish. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and toss them with a spoon to coat all peppers evenly with the oil.
- Season and Arrange: Sprinkle the coated peppers with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Toss again to distribute the seasoning evenly. Flatten the peppers into a single layer as much as possible to promote even roasting.
- Roast Peppers: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are soft when pierced with a knife and have blistered spots on their skins. The peppers will also collapse slightly when roasted.
- Add Dressing and Garlic: Remove the peppers from the oven, drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Add the minced garlic and toss everything together to coat the peppers thoroughly with the dressing and flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted peppers along with all juices to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and additional salt if desired. Serve warm as a side dish, appetizer with bread and cheese, or atop crostini with whipped ricotta.
Notes
- Use mini bell peppers of various colors for a vibrant presentation.
- The peppers can be roasted a few hours ahead and served at room temperature.
- Adjust salt and vinegar to taste for a tangier or more savory flavor.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a fragrant, fresh note.
- Serve with crusty bread or soft cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for a delightful appetizer experience.