The etiquette rules on how to serve and eat bell peppers. Tips to be the ideal host or the perfect guest and avoid any embarrassment.

What bell pepper etiquette is

Bell pepper etiquette is the set of rules to properly serve and eat bell peppers. Such rules help avoid behaviors that can disrespect your hosts or guests, or make you look unpolite.

If you are hosting, follow the etiquette to serve bell pepper to your guests appropriately.

As a guest, respect the etiquette rules to properly eat bell pepper at the dining table and avoid offending your hosts or embarrassing yourself.

serving bell peppers

What you should know about bell pepper

Bell pepper, also known as sweet pepper or capsicum, is a type of vegetable that belongs to the nightshade family.

Bell peppers have a thick, crunchy flesh with a sweet taste. They come in a variety of colors such as green, red, yellow, and orange, depending on their level of ripeness. The texture is firm and smooth, with a slightly waxy outer skin.

Etiquette rules to serve and eat bell pepper

1) How to store bell pepper

The ideal temperature to store bell pepper is between 40-45°F (4-7°C). In the pantry, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. In the fridge, store them in a plastic bag or airtight container, and they can last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze bell peppers by blanching them first and storing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 6 months.

Store sliced or cooked bell pepper in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container.

2) How to clean bell pepper

To clean bell peppers, rinse them under cool running water and dry them with a paper towel. There are no significant risks associated with cleaning bell peppers.

Signs that a bell pepper has gone bad include soft spots, wrinkles, mold, or a slimy texture.

3) How to prepare & cook bell pepper

Bell peppers can be eaten raw or cooked. Common ways to cook bell pepper include grilling, roasting, sautéing, or stuffing.

Bell peppers are a popular ingredient in many dishes, including fajitas, stir-fries, salads, soups, and stews.

Bell peppers are great in salads and sandwiches. You can also juice or blend them into smoothies. However, they are not commonly used to make jams or preserves.

4) How to serve & present bell pepper

Bell peppers are appropriate for any occasion, from formal to informal meals. You can serve them as a side dish, a main course, an appetizer, or a snack.

Serve bell peppers at room temperature or chilled. Present them in any type of plate or bowl, with regular serving utensils. No specific serving tools are necessary.

The most common seasonings and accompaniments for bell peppers include garlic, onion, cumin, paprika, and olive oil.

5) Food and wine to pair bell pepper with

Bell peppers pair well with a variety of vegetables and fruits, such as tomatoes, onions, avocado, cucumber, and pineapple. They do not pair well with citrus fruits or highly acidic vegetables.

Bell pepper pairs well with cheese and dairy, such as feta, goat cheese, and cream cheese. They do not pair well with strong-flavored cheeses like blue cheese.

Bell pepper pairs well with meats such as steak, chicken, and pork. They also pair well with fish like salmon and tilapia. They do not pair well with shellfish like shrimp or crab.

Bell pepper pairs well with a variety of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. They also pair well with beer, sparkling wine, and spirits.

6) How to eat bell pepper

It is polite to eat bell pepper with a fork and knife or with your fingers. You should discard the stems and seeds.

Bell pepper etiquette: the worst mistakes

Avoid the most common bell pepper etiquette mistakes:

  • 8/10. Not properly cleaning bell peppers before serving.
  • 6/10. Not removing the stem and seeds before cooking or serving bell peppers.

Additional information for properly serving bell pepper

How many calories per serving?

Counting calories is important to stay healthy and correctly planning a menu.

One medium-sized bell pepper contains approximately 24 calories. 100 grams of bell pepper contains approximately 20 calories.

How to buy the best bell pepper

A crucial factor in bell pepper etiquette is serving your guests the best product possible.

Season and availability 

Bell peppers are available year-round, but the best season to buy them is from July to September.

Choose the best

Bell peppers can be found in commerce in fresh, canned, and dried forms. The most popular varieties of bell peppers in commerce are green, red, yellow, and orange bell peppers. Other varieties of bell peppers include purple, white, and chocolate-colored bell peppers. The most prized varieties of bell pepper are those that are sweet, crunchy and have thick flesh.

When buying bell peppers, look for peppers that are firm, glossy, and have smooth skin. The stem should be intact and green. Avoid peppers that have soft spots, wrinkles, or bruises, as these are signs that the pepper is not fresh or has been damaged. Also, check for mold or discoloration on the pepper.

Alternatives to bell pepper

Some common alternatives to bell peppers include other types of sweet peppers like banana peppers, cubanelle peppers, and pimiento peppers. Other alternatives include carrots, zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms. These vegetables have a similar texture and can be used in recipes that call for bell peppers.

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