Peppers in tomato sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or even a main course. The peppers are simmered in a rich tomato sauce, making them tender and infused with delicious flavors. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color or a mix)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 1 1/2 cups fresh diced tomatoes)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Peppers:
- Wash and cut the bell peppers into strips or bite-sized pieces. You can also cut them into rings if you prefer.
-
Cook the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, dried basil (if using), and sugar (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Cook the Peppers:
- Add the bell peppers to the tomato sauce. Stir to coat the peppers with the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
-
Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
-
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve warm as a side dish, or over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread.
This dish is versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients like olives, capers, or cooked sausage if you like. The peppers and tomato sauce make for a rich, satisfying combination that complements many different main courses. Enjoy!
