Ingredients:
- 4 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 2 onions
- 4 tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing the bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes under cool running water. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, chop the onions, and dice the tomatoes. Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until it turns golden and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Peppers and Onions
Add the sliced bell peppers and chopped onions to the pan. Stir well to coat them with the garlic-infused oil. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the peppers and onions have softened.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes
Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes to the pan. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and meld with the flavors of the peppers and onions.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) over the peperonata mixture. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the peperonata simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to marry and deepen.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After the simmering time is up, take off the lid and give your peperonata a final stir. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of flavor and freshness. Serve the peperonata hot or even at room temperature alongside crusty bread or as a side dish to complement your favorite entrees.
This step-by-step guide will help you master the art of making a delicious peperonata that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Experiment with different bell pepper colors and seasonings to customize the dish to your liking. Bon appétit!