Cacciata di Peperoni: A Delightful Italian Dish

Quick Meal Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 180
• Cost of Ingredients: $10–$15 (depending on seasonal prices)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main dish or side dish
• Equipment Needed: Large skillet or casserole dish, cutting board, knife, and wooden spoon

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Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (mixed colors: red, yellow, green, or orange)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or one can of diced tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional for a heartier dish)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients
   • Start by washing the bell peppers and cutting them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes. Cut them into strips or bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.
   • Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   • In a large skillet or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Peppers
   • Add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The peppers should be tender and the flavors well combined.
5. Incorporate Rice or Quinoa (Optional)
   • If you’re using rice or quinoa, stir it into the pepper mixture and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This adds a nice texture and makes the dish more filling.
6. Taste and Adjust
   • Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If it feels too thick, you can add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up.
7. Serve
   • Once everything is cooked through and flavors are melded, remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

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Variations

• Protein Additions: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans to the dish.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.
• Vegan Version: Ensure you’re using plant-based protein and vegetable broth.
• Grain-Free Option: Serve the peppers on their own or over a bed of sautéed greens for a low-carb option.

Tips and Substitutions

• Bell Pepper Colors: Feel free to use any color of bell pepper you like. Each variety offers a slightly different flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: If fresh herbs are available, use them for an enhanced flavor.
• Make it Ahead: Cacciata di Peperoni can be made in advance and reheated, making it great for meal prep.

Check out the right equipment and Ingredients that you need for making  Cacciata di Peperoni  here

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 5g

Troubleshooting Tips

• Too Watery: If the dish becomes too watery, cook it uncovered for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
• Overcooked Peppers: If you accidentally overcook the peppers, adding fresh herbs at the end can help revive the flavor.
• Flavor Lacking: Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference for the best flavor.