What is a Bell pepper?
Scientific name of Bell pepper is Capsicum annum. The edible portion of the plant is its pod shaped fruit. It is a popular exotic vegetable used in many continental food preparations. It is a cool season vegetable. Bell pepper is also known as sweet pepper and capsicum. Bell pep- per can be grown both as an open field crop and as a protected greenhouse crop. Under open field conditions,bell pepper is grown in hills during summers and during winters in plains. Under protected conditions, bell pepper can be grown throughout the year.
Bell Pepper Varieties Green and red bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, orange bell peppers, white bell peppers, purple bell peppers etc. are different varieties of bell peppers. Bell peppers are in different colors depending on their growth level the green one is unripe and the red one is the ripe one,the orange and yellow ones are in ‘the middle’. They have many health benefits which includes heart health, improves vision, reduces cancer risk among others.
Types of Bell Pepper
Cherry Peppers
Sweet cherry peppers can be a bit spicy, but that’s part of their fun. Mainly they are sweet little nuggets that taste like what they look like: condensed red peppers. They’re tasty raw as a poppy little snack. They’re also good in salads or pickled.
Cubanelle Peppers
These long, thin peppers are a pale yellow-green when they first grow, but will darken and then turn red if left to fully ripen. Most are sold in their unripe state and used chopped as an aromatic for other dishes, or roasted and stuffed.
Green Bell Peppers
These are the peppers we, and so many others, grew up with. They are grassy in flavor and super-crunchy in texture. We happen to like them best in stuffed peppers. Whether you decide to stuff them with ground meat or quinoa and veggies, then cook them until tender and juicy, we are sure they’ll find a special place in your heart.
Italian Frying Peppers
These skinny, mild peppers are so named because they are at their best when either sliced long and thin or chopped up and gently fried in olive oil. The long, thing slices make a side dish all on their own. The chopped up ones are perfect for adding to sandwiches (best with Italian deli meats, of course!).
To fry them: use a large pan over medium heat with plenty of high-quality olive oil in it. Trim the peppers (remove their stems; slice them lengthwise and remove their seeds, if you like, and add the to the pan. Sprinkle with some salt and cook, stirring now and again, until the peppers are supremely soft, about 30 minutes.
Orange Bell Peppers
Like their sunny brethren, the yellow bell peppers, orange bell peppers are a bit less flavorful than red bell peppers, but just as sweet and just as pretty. Use them raw in salads or roast them up to add their bright orange sunshine to dishes.
Purple Bell Peppers
Purple bell peppers are less sweet that red, orange, or yellow belle peppers, but they’re definitely sweeter than green ones. They are perfect in salads or other raw dishes since their brilliant shiny purple color turns muddy and even a bit gray when cooked.
Red Bell Peppers
These are the most popular sweet peppers, This is probably because they are, in fact, quite sweet. Their bright color and sweet flavor make them perfect for tossing into salads (such as this Corn Avocado Pepper Salad or this Pickled Bell Pepper Salad).
Red peppers have a less grassy flavor than most peppers and become silken and luscious when roasted, a trait highlighted in this delicious Red Pepper Marinara Sauce.
Roasting Pimentos (Pimentons)
Roasting pimentos are best for, as you may have guessed, roasting. They tend to have a high sugar level and roasting brings out their deep sweetness and makes it silky smooth. See How to Roast Peppers Under a Broiler and How to Roast Peppers Over a Flame to make the most of these lovelies. (Note: Others may use them in dishes, but I prefer to serve them roasted and drizzled with a bit of extra virgin olive oil, and call it a day.)
Yellow Bell Peppers
Yellow peppers can be used much like red or orange peppers. They are similarly sweet, but have a milder taste. They roast up beautifully, just like red peppers, and keep their lovely yellow hue when cooked.
Bell Pepper History
Bell pepper, as they are known in the United States, refers to the fruit of the cultivar capsicum annuum that can be found in a range of colors; red, orange, yellow, green, and even purple or white. They are known as sweet peppers or simply peppers in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while in India, New Zealand, and Australia they are known as capsicum. Bell peppers are just one species of the family capsicum annuum, which includes, Anaheim chilis, jalapenos, and New Mexico chilis.While peppers share their name with the popular dried peppercorns, they are in no way related.
Bell peppers are native to Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America. They were introduced to Spain by Christoper Columbus in 1493 and from their they spread throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. Aside from what is known about Columbus bringing peppers to Europe not much is known about their history before that. It is well known that peppers existed long before this and were used by natives of South, Central, and North America. Prehistoric remains of peppers have been discovered at numerous sites in Peru.
Numerous authors wrote about the presence of peppers in Spain throughout the 16th and 17th centuries, but they did not appear in cook books until the 18th century. Today bell peppers are widely used throughout the world. They have taken on prominence the cuisine of India, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Africa, and The Middle East.
In the United States, bell peppers are grown in Florida, California, Georgia, Texas, and Arizona. China produces almost 60% of the worlds annual production at more than 14 million metric tonnes. Mexico follows a distant second at 1.6 million tonnes and the United States ranks sixth at less than 1 million tonnes.
April 1st marked the 90th anniversary of the development of the modern sweet pepper, also known as the bell pepper. In Central America, Mexico, and northern South America there is evidence that numerous types of peppers (Capsicum annuum) have been cultivated by native peoples for at least 6,500 years.
Bell pepper Nutrition
The bell pepper is a cultivar group of the Capsicum annum species of plants, part of the family of foods known as nightshade vegetables. Botanically, it’s a fruit, but nutritionally considered a vegetable. While the other cultivars within this species are famous for their capsaicin content (which is what gives most peppers and chilis, such as cayenne peppers, their spicy taste), bell peppers contain no capsaicin and are referred to in many cultures as “sweet peppers.”
There are various color varieties of bell peppers, with the most common being red, yellow and green. However, you may find them more infrequently in orange, brown, white and lavender. There are also nutritional differences between colors of bell peppers — for example, a red bell pepper contains over eight times the amount of vitamin A than a green bell pepper.
My favorite thing about bell peppers is their extremely high concentration of antioxidants. Just one of these handy veggies will provide more than twice the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, and three-fourths of your daily needed vitamin A intake.
And the best part? When you eat these vitamins rather than take them in supplement form, your body is able to absorb exactly the amount you need and safely expel the rest. This is especially important in regards to vitamin A, because overdosing on vitamin A supplements (what is known as “preformed” vitamin A) can cause extremely serious side effects. But this is not so when you consume it through your diet!
Fresh, raw bell peppers are mainly composed of water (92%). The rest is made up of carbohydrates and small amounts of protein and fat. The table below presents all the main nutrients in bell peppers.
Nutrition Facts: Bell Peppers, sweet, red, raw – 100 grams
| Amount | |
| Calories | 31 |
| Water | 92 % |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Sugar | 4.2 g |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Saturated | 0.03 g |
| Monounsaturated | 0 g |
| Polyunsaturated | 0.07 g |
| Omega-3 | 0.03 g |
| Omega-6 | 0.05 g |
| Trans fat | ~ |
Carbs
Bell peppers are primarily composed of carbs, accounting for the majority of the total calorie content. A cup (149 grams) of chopped red bell peppers contains 9 grams of carbs. The carbs are mostly sugars, such as glucose and fructose, which are responsible for the sweet taste of ripe bell peppers. Bell peppers also contain small amounts of fiber, 2% by fresh weight. Calorie for calorie, they are actually a very good fiber source.
Vitamins and Minerals
Bell peppers are loaded with various vitamins and minerals, and are exceptionally rich in vitamin C.
Vitamin C: One medium-sized red bell pepper contains 169% of the RDA for vitamin C, making it one of the richest dietary sources of this essential nutrient.
Vitamin B6: Pyridoxine is the most common type of vitamin B6, which is a family of nutrients that are important for the formation of red blood cells.
Vitamin K1: A form of vitamin K, also known as phylloquinone. It is important for blood clotting and bone health.
Potassium: An essential mineral that may improve heart health if consumed in adequate amounts.
Folate: Also known as folic acid, folacin, or vitamin B9, folate has a variety of functions in the body. Adequate folate intake is very important during pregnancy.
Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant, essential for healthy nerves and muscles. The best dietary sources of this fat-soluble vitamin are oils, nuts, seeds, and vegetables.
Vitamin A: Red bell peppers are high in pro-vitamin A (beta-carotene), which is converted into vitamin A in the body.
Benefits of Potassium
Bell peppers are good sources of potassium. This mineral helps in keeping the fluids and minerals balanced in the body. It enhances muscle function and regulates blood pressure.
Other Plant Compounds
Bell peppers are rich in various antioxidants, especially carotenoids, which are much more abundant when they are ripe.
Capsanthin: Abundant in red bell peppers, capsanthin is a powerful antioxidant responsible for their brilliant red color. Studies indicate that this carotenoid may help protect against cancer.
Violaxanthin: The most common carotenoid antioxidant in yellow bell peppers.
Lutein: While being abundant in green bell peppers and black paprika, lutein is absent from ripe bell peppers. Adequate intake of lutein may improve eye health.
Quercetin: A polyphenol antioxidant found in a wide variety of plants. Studies indicate that it may be beneficial for the prevention of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Luteolin: Similarly to quercetin, luteolin is an polyphenol antioxidant that may have a variety of beneficial health effects
Health Benefits of Bell pepper
1. Improves Vision
Bell peppers contain vitamin A which help support healthy eyesight, especially night vision. They also contain lutein that helps in lowering the risk of macular degeneration of the eyes. Macular degeneration of eyes is the most common cause of age related visual loss. Bell peppers also protect your eyes from cataracts due to their high levels of beta-carotene and vitamin C.
2. Reduces Cancer Risk
Bell peppers contain anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant which neutralizes free radicals that can cause harm to cells. The enzymes in bell pepper help to prevent gastric cancer and esophageal cancer. The carotenoid lycopene is found to be effective in the prevention of prostate, bladder, cervix and pancreas cancer.
3. Heart Health
Red bell peppers are rich in lycopene, thus making them excellent for a healthy heart whereas green bell peppers are a good source of cholesterol lowering fiber. Increased homocysteine levels can lead to a higher risk of heart disease. Bell peppers contain vitamin B6 and folate which help to lower homocysteine levels.
4. Boosts Immunity
Vitamin C is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and for building strong collagen to support skin and joints. It is instrumental in lowering the risk of arthritis and reducing inflammation. Vitamin K aids in the formation of blood clots. It is important for developing strong bones and protection of cells from oxidative damage.
5.Regulates Blood Pressure
Bell peppers are good sources of potassium which is a vasodilator and enhances muscle function and regulates blood pressure.
6. Skin Care
Red, green and yellow bell peppers are rich in vitamin C which helps in the production of collagen. Collagen keeps the skin firm and protects the cells from further damage. It increases the ability of the skin to fight against oxidative damage.
Bell peppers protect the skin from damage-causing free radicals, thus promoting healthy and younger looking skin.
7.Treats Anemia
Anemia is a common condition characterized by reduced ability of the blood to carry oxygen. One of the most common causes of anemia is iron deficiency, the main symptoms of which are weakness and tiredness. Not only are red bell peppers a decent source of iron, they are also exceptionally rich in vitamin C, which increases the absorption of iron from the gut.
In fact, one medium-sized red bell pepper may contain 169% of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C. Absorption of dietary iron is significantly increased when consumed with fruits or vegetables that are high in vitamin C. For this reason, eating raw bell peppers with iron-rich foods, such as meat or spinach, may help increase your body’s iron stores, cutting the risk of anemia.
8. Aids in weight loss
Bell peppers are low in calories and a good source of fiber. Fiber gives a fuller filing reducing appetite and binge eating or snacking.
9. Maintains a healthy mind
Bell peppers contain folate and B complex which are essential for health mind, they also alleviate depression.
10. Colon Health
Fibers in the bell peppers are very helpful for the colon to protect colon from the damaging effect of microbes and toxic particle. The antioxidants vitamin such as vitamin A, vitamin B9 and vitamin C can be useful intake for keep the colon to being always healthy. It has a very important part to reduce the risk of colon’s cancer.
Improper digestive functioning results in diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, etc. that is utterly irritating and draining. Nutritionists recommend incorporating bell peppers into your daily diet due to the high niacin content found in them. Niacin is a vitamin B that is essential to improve the condition of your digestive system. Proper digestion of foods will allow your body to absorb minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients that you consume on a daily basis. Hence, add some bell pepper to your salads and keep digestive problems at bay.
11. Nourishing for Fetus
Nutritionists recommend consuming folate to expectant mothers as it nourishes the fetus. You can reap plenty of nutrients along with the high content of folate from any bell pepper for the healthy development of the fetus. Consuming bell pepper raw or cooked during pregnancy is said to be effective for pregnant mothers; however, consuming diet after consulting with your physician is advised specifically during pregnancy.
12. An Antioxidant
Bell peppers can function as antioxidants. You need plenty of antioxidants as they fight cancerous cells and free radicals in your body to protect it against chronic diseases such as cancer. If not consumed adequately, your body organs can encounter oxidative damage as well which can be fatal. However, more studies are underway to determine the benefits of antioxidants found in bell peppers on the growth of cancerous cells in the body.
13. Anti-Inflammatory
Body inflammation can contribute to daunting diseases if not treated on time. Nutritionists encourage people to consume foods enriched with anti-inflammatory properties such as bell peppers. Studies have shown that incorporating orange and red bell peppers can prevent chronic joints and muscles inflammation. Moreover, the nutrients found in the vegetable are potent to ward off factors associated with seasonal allergies. You can incorporate bell peppers to minimize the allergic reactions in the diet of children and adults alike. However, it is advised to consult with your primary care physician in case of severe inflammation and allergy and to avoid self-medication.
14. For Nervous System
Your nervous system signals your brain to perform functions. This is why psychologists emphasized on maintaining the health of your nervous system. A recent study has shown positive effects of nutrients found in bell peppers on the psychological health and cognitive abilities. However, more evidence is required to find the effects of potassium and magnesium on chronic psychological diseases such as dementia.
15. Anti-aging
Antioxidants are necessary to prevent skin cells and tissues from potential damages that result in sagged, dry, damaged skin and make fine lines, wrinkles apparent. Beauty experts recommend consuming foods abundant in antioxidants like bell peppers. The vegetable is also a powerhouse of vitamin C and when regularly consumed, these components function to ward off factors associated with early aging. The vitamin C is known as your skin’s best friend; it goes deep into the skin pores and rejuvenates dead cells and tissues. The process will then result in youthful skin free from dark spots and premature wrinkles.
16. For Respiratory Health
Consuming bell peppers in any form can be effective for your respiratory health. The nutrients like potassium, manganese, magnesium and vitamin C are known to combat factors that result in various respiratory problems such as asthma, lung infection, emphysema, etc. However, it is advised to consult with your primary care doctor before incorporating bell peppers in case of serious respiratory issues.
17. Promotes a healthy pregnancy
Bell peppers contain 14 percent of the daily recommended amount of folate, a vital nutrient for pregnant mothers. In fact, the daily recommendation for folate goes up approximately an additional 50 percent in pregnant women because of its role in preventing birth defects and keeping unborn children healthy.
Not only does folate help reduce birth defects, it also promotes healthy neural tube development, helps in a child growing to an appropriate birth rate before delivery, and causes the face and heart to develop properly.
How To Select And Store Bell Pepper
All bell peppers are not grown equally, so be cautious in your shopping. They are cmmonly known for having the largest concentration of pesticides when bought in non-organic form.
Buying your bell peppers organic is not only important because of the presence of pesticides, but because organic bell peppers contain a much better antioxidant load. Researchers in Poland discovered in 2012 that organic bell peppers contain “significantly more vitamin C, total carotenoids, β-carotene, α-carotene, cis-β-carotene, total phenolic acids and flavonoids compared with [non-organic varieties].”
As with most fruits and vegetables, try to choose bell peppers without any obvious damage. The brighter the flavor, the fresher your peppers will be. When shopping, search for brightly colored peppers with a firm skin that yields to slight pressure- skin will shine! Make sure the stems of the bell pepper are green in color. The peppers will be heavy for their size. Avoid peppers with bruises, soft spots, or shriveled skin.
Store
Place bell peppers in a plastic bag in the refrigerator- will last 5 to 7 days! Add a damp paper towel to the vegetable compartment- helps the pepper to retain its water.
Cherry Pepper
Growing Cherry Pepper
Cherry Pepper plants are treated just like other pepper varieties. They love warm soil, warm air and ample irrigation. Before planting peppers in the garden, try heating the soil with a layer of black plastic for a week or two. All types of peppers exhibit excellent root and shoot growth when planted in warm soil.
Cherry pepper plants reach about 2 feet in height at maturity with an equal spread. Most are ready to harvest about 75 to 80 days after planting. Avoid setting transplants out too, early as peppers are intolerant of frosts.
Harvest cherry peppers regularly for continual production and improved yields. Like other pepper types, cherry peppers drop their flowers when temperatures rise above the high 80s. But don’t worry; once the hot spell passes and temperatures cool down a bit, the flowers will no longer abort and production will begin again.
A word of caution: If you grow both sweet and hot cherry pepper varieties, label the plants well, especially if you have kids who like to snack as they walk through the garden. It’s quite a surprise to expect a bite of fresh, sweet pepper and end up with a mouthful of heat.
Cherry Pepper Simple Recipe
Quick-Pickled Cherry Peppers
Ingredients
- 12 cherry peppers, washed well
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, cut into thirds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 peppercorns
Procedure
- With the tip of a knife, poke a few holes around the tops of the peppers. Place peppers and remaining ingredients into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the peppers are slightly softened.
- Cool for approximately 30 minutes. Transfer peppers and brine to storage container and refrigerate. Eat peppers once they’ve cooled or store for up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Serve them whole or scoop out the seeds and stuff them with your favorite cheese or meat.
Cubanelle Pepper
This yellow-green to red tapered fruit is prized for a sweet, mild flesh that is growing in popularity because of its rich flavor and pretty colors for frying and cooking. The thin-walled pepper is especially suited for quick cooking. Popular in dishes of Spanish, Italian, and Slavic descent, many cooks prefer it to bell types. In the garden, Cubanelle peppers are unique, often growing in imperfect shapes and changing color from green/yellow to shades of orange to red. Don’t be surprised if the some of the peppers curl and twist a bit. No two seem to ever be alike — it’s part of of their charm.
Some Bonnie Plants varieties may not be available in your local area, due to different variables in certain regions. Also, if any variety is a limited, regional variety it will be noted on the pertinent variety page.
Growing Cubanelle Pepper
Light requirements: Full sun.
Planting: Space 12 to 48 inches apart, depending on type. (See information above for specific recommendations.)
Soil requirements: Peppers need well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Amend soil with 3 to 5 inches of compost or other organic matter prior to planting. Soil pH should be 6.2 to 7.0.
Water requirements: Keep soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Mulch soil to reduce water evaporation.
Frost-fighting plan: Pepper is a hot-weather crop. A light frost will damage plants (28º F to 32º F), and temps below 55º F slow growth and cause leaves to look yellowish. If a surprise late spring frost is in the forecast, protect newly planted seedlings with a frost blanket.
Common issues: Plants drop flowers when daytime temps soar above 90º F. Few pests bother peppers, but keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, pill bugs, and leafminers. Humid weather (especially in gardens with heavy soil that doesn’t drain well) can invite fungal diseases like leafspot.
Harvesting: Check image on plant tag (or at the top of this page) to learn what your pepper looks like when mature. Some peppers turn red, yellow, or other colors at maturity. Others are ready in the green stage, but will turn red if left on plants. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut peppers with a short stub of stem attached. Pulling peppers by hand can cause entire branches to break off. Fruits store longer for fresh use if you don’t remove the stem, which can create an open wound that’s ripe for spoiling.
Storage: Store unwashed (or washed and dried) peppers in the refrigerator in a loosely closed plastic bag. Moisture is a pepper’s enemy and hastens spoiling. For peak flavor and nutrition, use within a week.
Cubanelle Bell Pepper Recipe
Chicken-Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers
Ingredients
- 6 Cubanelle peppers or mild banana peppers
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup salsa
- 3/4 cup soft bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked long grain rice
- 2 cups meatless pasta sauce
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°. Cut and discard tops from peppers; remove seeds. In a large bowl, mix eggs, chicken, salsa, bread crumbs and rice. Spoon into peppers.
- Spread pasta sauce onto bottom of a 13 x 9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Top with peppers. Bake, covered, 60-65 minutes or until peppers are tender and a thermometer inserted in stuffing reads at least 165°.
Green Bell pepper
A fresh, crisp green bell pepper is a tasty vegetable that can be a regular part of your healthy eating plan. This vegetable is low in calories and contains 0 grams of fat and a good supply vitamins and minerals. Their mildly sweet flavor makes green bell peppers versatile enough to include a wide variety of nutritious recipes.
Bonnie’s best hybrid sweet bell pepper! A heavy yielder of large fruits. A good all-round pepper for slicing, stuffing, and freezing. This bell produces lots of fresh bell peppers gradually over the growing season. Plants in our Alabama garden produce from June through October, yielding 30 or more peppers from each plant. (Your results will vary based on care and the length of your growing season.) This is a good-sized plant, so be prepared to stake if needed.
Nutritional Benefits of Green Bell Pepper
Fiber
A 1-cup serving of green bell peppers contains 2.5 grams of fiber toward the daily recommendation of 21 to 25 grams for women and the 30 to 38 grams for men. When you take in enough fiber on a daily basis, your digestive system works more efficiently, which means you’re less likely to get constipated or develop hemorrhoids. Getting enough fiber reduces your risk of heart disease and diabetes as well. Fiber might also help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight because it keeps you full, which can help prevent you from eating too much.
Vitamins C and E
You need between 75 and 90 milligrams of vitamin C per day, and one cup of chopped green bell peppers provides 119.8 milligrams. When you get enough vitamin C, you’re less likely to develop infections, and your skin, teeth, gums and blood vessels are healthier and work more efficiently. The same serving of chopped green bell peppers contains 0.55 milligrams of vitamin E toward the 15 milligrams you should take in every day. Vitamin E helps protect your cells from damage and supports a strong immune system.
Health Benefits of Green Bell Pepper
Eating a diet rich in vegetables, including green bell peppers, reduces your risk of certain chronic illnesses. A 2006 article published in the “Bulletin of University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine” reports that the antioxidants in vegetables reduce free radical damage. Free radicals are compounds that cause cell damage that can lead to inflammation, heart problems and cancer. While red bell peppers contain larger amounts of antioxidants, green bell peppers are a significant source as well. Green bell peppers also contain zeaxanthin, which keeps your eyes healthy and might reduce your risk of age-related eye disorders.
Tips
Eat raw green bell peppers with low-fat ranch dressing or hummus for a nutritious and tasty side dish or snack. Add chopped bell peppers to spaghetti sauce or your favorite lasagna recipe. Stir chopped green bell peppers into scrambled eggs or layer raw strips of the pepper onto a lean turkey or chicken sandwich. Include green bell peppers in vegetable, chicken noodle or minestrone soup. The peppers complement the taste of chili as well. Scatter pieces of raw green bell pepper over a tossed green salad or add to pasta salad.
How to Grow Green Bell pepper
Planting: Space 12 to 48 inches apart, depending on type. (See information above for specific recommendations.)
Soil requirements: Peppers need well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Amend soil with 3 to 5 inches of compost or other organic matter prior to planting. Soil pH should be 6.2 to 7.0.
Water requirements: Keep soil consistently moist throughout the growing season. Mulch soil to reduce water evaporation.
Frost-fighting plan: Pepper is a hot-weather crop. A light frost will damage plants (28º F to 32º F), and temps below 55º F slow growth and cause leaves to look yellowish. If a surprise late spring frost is in the forecast, protect newly planted seedlings with a frost blanket.
Common issues: Plants drop flowers when daytime temps soar above 90º F. Few pests bother peppers, but keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, pill bugs, and leaf miners. Humid weather (especially in gardens with heavy soil that doesn’t drain well) can invite fungal diseases like leaf spot.
Harvesting: Check image on plant tag (or at the top of this page) to learn what your pepper looks like when mature. Some peppers turn red, yellow, or other colors at maturity. Others are ready in the green stage, but will turn red if left on plants. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut peppers with a short stub of stem attached. Pulling peppers by hand can cause entire branches to break off. Fruits store longer for fresh use if you don’t remove the stem, which can create an open wound that’s ripe for spoiling.
Storage: Store unwashed (or washed and dried) peppers in the refrigerator in a loosely closed plastic bag. Moisture is a pepper’s enemy and hastens spoiling. For peak flavor and nutrition, use within a week.
Green Bell Pepper Recipe
Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic Vinegar
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 eggplants, cut into
- 1/2-inch slices
- 3 zucchinis, cut into
- 1/2-inch slices
- 2 green bell peppers, cut into
- 1/2-inch slices
Directions
Prep Cook Ready In
15 m 10 m 1 h 10 m
- Whisk olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss eggplants, zucchinis, and bell peppers in soy sauce marinade. Marinate for about 45 minutes.
- Preheat grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Remove vegetables from marinade, shaking off excess.
- Grill vegetables on preheated grill until tender, 10 to 15 minutes, brushing vegetables with marinade. Transfer cooked vegetables to a platter and serve with any remaining marinade.
Italian Frying pepper
Description/Taste
Italian Frying peppers range from lime citron to deep forest green and are 20 to 25 centimeters long with a curving convoluted shape. They quickly ripen to a bright red color when fully mature. The walls are thin and tender, encompassing few seeds that are perfectly edible and add a sweet taste to the pepper. The raw peppers are succulent and crisp, but then transform into a creamy smoky treat when cooked. They offer the perfect combination of sweetness and crunch, with a complex yet delicate roasted flavor.
Seasons/Availability
Italian Frying peppers may be found year-round with peak season in the summer.
Current Facts
Italian Frying peppers are a variety of Capsicum annuum, and may also be commonly referred to as Italianelles or Sweet Italian Long peppers. Unlike some peppers that are unpleasantly bitter and acrid when unripe, the Italian Frying peppers are sweet and delicious in all stages of ripeness, whether green, yellow or red. A commonly found Italian heirloom seed variety of this species is the “Jimmy Nardello”.
Nutritional Value
Like most peppers in the family, Italian Frying peppers are rich in vitamins C, B6 and A, antioxidants, carotenoids and flavonoids.
Applications
Italian Frying peppers are usually eaten whole, seeds and all, sautéed, grilled, charred, fried, baked and stuffed. Many recipes are beautifully simple involving nothing more than a hot pan, salt and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese. Their verdant pepper flavor compliments basil, thyme, parsley, garlic, onion, pine nuts, sausage and cheeses such as feta, goat, mozzarella, Parmesan, Fontina, provolone, gruyere and Gouda.
Geography/History
Italian Frying peppers are a vigorous plant that can grow in most temperate climates with moderate rainfall. They thrive during the heat of summer and are usually mature for harvest within 60-70 days of germination. The seeds of the Jimmy Nardello variety were donated in 1983 to Seed Savers Exchange for preservation by the peppers namesake, the son of Giuseppe and Angela Nardello. They were originally brought over from the Southern Italian coastal town of Ruoti when the family moved to America in 1887.
Italian Fried Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Large Red Bell Peppers, seeded and sliced
- 8 Cloves of Garlic, peeled but not chopped
- 3 Tbsp of Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
Preparation
1. Add the oil and garlic in a large non stick skillet and preheat it over medium heat. Cook it long enough for the garlic to become fragrant and lightly golden.
2. Add the peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook them for about 25 to 30 minutes or until they have cooked down and have caramelized around the edges and become soft.
4. Serve with some good quality Italian bread and enjoy!
Orange Bell Pepper
Bell peppers are high in nutrients and are a good addition to a well-balanced diet. They are available year-round at supermarkets and farmers markets, but are in season in the warmer months. Brightly colored bell peppers, including orange ones, offer similar health benefits due to the nutrients they contain. Try orange peppers in your next batch of fajitas or chop and add to quiche or salad.
Low in Fat and Calories
A diet that moderates fat and calorie intake is one that helps you control your weight. Getting too many calories and too much fat will cause you to gain weight, which increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Choosing foods that contain intense flavors without a large amount of fat or calories is beneficial to your health. Orange peppers are one such food and one of them contains only 30 calories and 0 grams of fat.
Vitamin C
One orange pepper contains 190 percent of the daily recommended intake for vitamin C, which is 75 milligrams for women and 90 milligrams for men. Vitamin C is a nutrient that supports healthy immunity and protects you from diseases. It also works to produce collagen, keeping your skin healthy and helps wounds heal. Eating vitamin C-rich foods makes it easier for your body to absorb the iron in your meals. For this reason, pairing orange bell peppers with fish or chicken is a good way to increase your iron stores, especially important for women who lose iron each month during menstruation.
Fiber
Orange bell peppers contain 2 grams of fiber each, making them a good way to reach the daily guidelines, which is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. Fiber is calorie-free and digests slowly, which makes it a good way to control your appetite. Getting enough fiber each day also works to improve your cholesterol levels, reducing your risk of heart disease at the same time. Fiber regulates digestion and bowel function and can be used to relieve constipation.
Antioxidants
Brightly colored fruits and vegetables contain a high amount of antioxidants. Orange peppers are no exception, with carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin. Carotenoids fight the cell damage that could result in the development of cancer and heart disease and occurs when you are exposed to toxins in the environment, including pollution and cigarette smoke. Lutein and zaexanthin protect your eyes from age related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Vitamin B-6
Orange peppers are a good way to increase your vitamin B-6 intake, which should be 1.3 to 1.7 milligrams. Vitamin B-6 helps your body metabolize protein and red blood cells. It also helps your body’s immune and nervous systems function. Getting inadequate supplies of B-6 could result in anemia because it is responsible for moving hemoglobin through your blood stream. A stable blood sugar level relies on getting the right amount of vitamin B-6.
Orange Bell Pepper Recipe
Stuffed Orange Peppers
Ingredients
- 6 orange bell peppers, tops and seeds removed
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/3 cup chopped onion
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, or more to taste
- 1/2 cup white rice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring
- 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese
Directions
Prep Cook Ready In
15 m 45 m 1 h
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil; cook orange bell peppers until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Drain.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir turkey and onion in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Stir tomatoes, rice, 1/2 cup water, and liquid smoke into turkey mixture; cover skillet and simmer until rice is tender, about 15 minutes. Remove skillet from heat; stir Gouda cheese into turkey mixture.
- Stuff each orange bell pepper with turkey mixture and place peppers, open-side up, in a baking dish. Cover dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven until heated through and cheese is melted, 25 to 35 minutes.
Purple Bell Pepper
Those who like spicy food must been know about paprika. Paprika is a plant that the taste of the fruit is sweet and a little bit spicy. Bell pepper have several color. That is red, green, yellow, and purple. But, for the green and purple bell pepper, the taste is a little bit bitter from the others. Mostly, people often use the bell pepper to make a salad. Bell paper have many benefits for our health.
Bell paper is rich in vitamin C. Bell pepper is good for skin health, anti aging, take care of our eyes, etc. But, now in this article will especially discuss about purple bell pepper. Purple bell pepper has anthocyanin content that are known to reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Purple bell pepper bloom during the summer. It’s need a lot of sunlight. Indeed, there are many health benefits of purple bell peppers.
Nutritional value of purple bell pepper
One large purple bell pepper
- Calories 50
- Carbohydates 12g
- Protein 2g
- Vitamin A 7%DV
- Vitamin C 569%
- Vitamin B6 16%
- Folate 12%
- Manganese 11%
- Potassium 11%
- Copper 10%
Purple bell pepper has many benefits for health. In the following paragraphs, you will know the benefits of purple bell pepper that maybe will surprise you.
1. Purple Bell Pepper is Rich in Vitamin C
Purple bell pepper have vitamin C content more than orange have. We need the vitamin C for muddle through baldness, prevent cancer, prevent pain such as bruises or sprains, increase immunity, protect from bleeding gums, and improve sperm quality.
The vitamin C in the purple bell pepper can help burn the calories in the our body. Furthermore, the vitamin C in the purple bell pepper have collagen that can help our body to keep integrity of blood vessel, skins, organs, and bones.
2. Protect the immune and nervous system
Again, there are many health benefits of purple bell peppers, this is one of the function of vitamin C that is protect our body’s system health and help stimulate white blood cell against the infection, and naturally build a strong immune system. It is also a rich source of vitamin B6, which is important for essential chemical reactions throughout the body, including involving brain’s function and immune’s function.
3. Sanctify the blood that needed during pregnancy
Purple bell peppers also provides a good source of foliate, which supports the functioning of red blood cells, and very important during pregnancy because it help to prevent certain types of birth defective on unborn child, for example spina bifida.
4. Support the optical system
The high vitamin C and beta-carotene as well as phytonutrients lutein and zeaxanthin in the purple bell pepper can help prevent and slowing expansion of eye diseases such as cataracts. Vitamin A that contained inside the purple bell pepper helping to take care of eyes health, prevent night-blindness and parry the infections.
5. Anti bacterial and anti-fungal effects
Purple bell pepper have antiseptic that effective to against the poison from the food. Because added with a good supply of proboscis, ferment and fungal infection problems like ring-worm and athlete’s foot can be easily solve.
6. Launching the digestive system
Purple bell pepper have high fiber content and stimulating effect. Also. it’s able to relieve intestines problems such as indigestion, stomach ulcers, diarrhea and flatulence. You can use 3 gram of fiber per cup to regulate digestion.
7. Essential Minerals
Purple bell peppers contains the rich source of essential minerals such as iron, copper, zinc, potassium, manganese, molybdenum, magnesium and selenium. Indeed, the sources used by the body as co-factors for enzymes that needed for healthy metabolism, and are also anti-oxidant substances.
8. Relieve the pain
Inside the bell pepper, there is a compound that called capsaicin. The function of capsaicin is to hamper transmittal of the pain, so it can help relieve the pein to a certain extent. It’s very useful for the people who suffered type 2 diabetes when they feel the pain. Not just that, capsaicin also relieve us from headaches and migrains.
9. Low cholesterol
Purple bell pepper have a high fiber content that help to reduce high level of cholesterol. The concentrated anti-oxidants against the oxidative stress, which is the main cause in oxidizing the lipids in our blood.
10. Prevent cancer
Purple bell peppers have a very high levels of anti-oxidants and phytonutrients contents to prevent cancers of the bladder, cervix, pancreas and prostate. Vitamin C content, can lower cancer risk and protect our eyes from cataracts, beta-carotene, protect breast cancer before menopause, and lycopene which may decrease the risk for ovarian cancer.
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11. Vitamin A and Flavonoids
Beside anthocyanin, purple bell pepper have vitamin A and Flavonoids. When we are stress or sick, there is free radicals which are toxic substances that can cause cancer. That is very dangerous. But, vitamin A and Flavonoids in the purple bell pepper can protect our body from that. So, make sure that you consume purple bell pepper regularly or frequently because we often get sick.
12. Alleviate throat’s illness
The anti-septic inside the purple bell pepper is very good. You can make a juice from some purple bell pepper and use that as a mouthwash to cure a sore throat.
13. B-Complex vitamins
Our body is not producing almost whole circuit of the B-complex group of vitamins such as niacin, folate, pyridoxine (vitamin B-6), riboflavin, and thiamin (vitamin B-1). B-complex vitamins help to proper cell function, through various metabolic processes.
14. Prevent nose bleeding
The rich vitamin C content helps to heal, repair, build and make stronger the lining of the mucous membranes to prevent frequent nose bleeds.
15. Increase metabolism
Purple bell peppers increase our body metabolism by lowering unhealthy axunge which are saved inside our body fats. It help to burn calories and may even help in weight loss.
16. Avoid high blood pressure
When the antioxidative is processing, phytonutrients in purple bell peppers also obstruct the spreading of atherosclerosis and lower the blood pressure. The potassium in the purple bell pepper can balancing the fluids and minerals in the body, so that increase the muscle function and control the blood pressure.
17. Help to warm the cold feet
If you feel cold on your feet, there is an old habit that use purple bell peppers and put them in your socks. The warm sensation will help your feet from the coldness.
18. Anti-aging effects
One of the antioxidant function that is very wanted by most woman is keep our face still look like young. It causes of the antioxidant can save our skin from the damage of free radical.
19. Avoid blood clots
Vitamin C in purple bell pepper have oxidative content that effective to prevent blood clots, so it can prevent symptoms such as stroke. Beside, vitamin C and B, purple bell pepper also have vitamin K content, that help to the clotting function of blood and prevent the blood loss.
20. Help prevent respiratory problems
The high level of vitamin C added with flavonoids make purple bell pepper is powerful in preventing respiratory problems. This is especially effective for children, who are prone to experience frequent upper respiratory tract infections. There are 20 benefits of purple bell pepper which can easily to make it a delicious food and without disappearing the benefits. Now, I will tell you how to make a salad with purple bell pepper.
Purple Bell Pepper Recommendation Intake
Indeed, there are many health benefits of purple bell pepper, now here is the recipe:
Salad Tomatoes Purple Bell Pepper
Ingredients
- 500 g Tomatoes
- 1 Purple bell pepper suit your taste
- 1 Bombay onion
- 2 egg’s yellow
- 4 table’s spoon peanut’s butter
- 1 tea’s spoon mustard
- 2 table’s spoon soft sugar
- 1 table’s spoon vinegar
- 2 table’s spoon warm water
- ½ tea’s spoon pepper
- Salt
Procedure
Slice the purple bell pepper and onions with a circle shape. Then, puree the egg yolk and mix well with peanut butter, mustard, refined sugar, vinegar, pepper salt, and warm water. Arrange the contents of salad in the dish and flush with the sauce. The salad tomatoes purple bell pepper ready to serve.
You also can plant the purple bell pepper by yourself in your garden or you field. This is few important instructions about how you can plant purple bell pepper. A good timing to plant a purple bell pepper is around 8-10 weeks before the end of the spring season. The temperature must be at lease 70 degree F for seed germination. The soil should be at least 65 degree F, as peppers will not survive transplanting at temps any colder. Remember, when you plants purple bell pepper, there is a pests or diseases that can be dangerous for the plant, for example, aphids, flea beetles, etc.
That is all about health benefits of purple bell peppers. I hope this article helpful to knowledge you about natural herbs and spice that beneficial for your body.
Red Bell Pepper
Red bell peppers are the members of the family of mild peppers which belong to the capsicum family. They are known as bell peppers due to their bell-like shape and have a mild, sweet flavor and a crisp juicy flesh. Although these are available all over the world, they have their origin in South and Central America and Mexico. All varieties of bell peppers including the red ones are green in color when unripe.
Red bell peppers are botanically fruits but they are known as vegetables which are used in a variety of dishes due to their mild, sweet and crispy flavor. On ripening they turn into bright red in color with a core inside containing plenty of seeds. They are usually comparable to soft balls in size, but they can be smaller depending upon their growing time. They are excellent sources of nutrients such as vitamins C, A and B6. Besides, they also contain vitamin E, vitamin K, folate and potassium; and antioxidants as well. Organic red bell peppers should be preferred to conventionally grown ones since they are eaten with their skins and the conventionally grown peppers often come in contact with harmful pesticides which leave their residue on their skin.
Red Bell Pepper Benefits
For your benefits, we have divided the various benefits of red bell pepper under connected sub headings.
Red Bell Pepper: Health Benefits
Apart from making the dishes attractive and delicious, these bright and glossy veggies are a storehouse of nutrients. Though green bell peppers are widely consumed, red bell peppers are much more nutritious and have comparatively sweeter taste. Some of the health benefits of red bell peppers are given below:
1. Red bell peppers are a healthy option that can form part of your daily diet as they contain phytonutrients which have powerful antioxidants in them. These antioxidants counteract environmental toxins and cell degradation. They protect your body from free radical damage that causes the development of cancer. Thus, bell peppers help in preventing different types of cancers in stomach, colon, breast, prostate and lung.
2. Red bell peppers provide 300 percent of daily vitamin C intake. Apart from being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is vital for proper absorption of iron. Thus, those suffering from iron deficiency can consume red bell peppers with their iron source to facilitate maximum absorption.
3. Snacking on red bell peppers helps in treating and preventing inflammation in the body. It is a great option for energizing yourself if you are overwhelmed with stress or feeling fatigued.
4. The combination of vitamin B6 and magnesium in red bell peppers aids in decreasing anxiety, especially due to pre-menstrual symptoms. Being a natural diuretic, vitamin B6 is great for reducing bloating and preventing hypertension.
5. Red bell pepper is an excellent source of vitamin A, providing about 75 percent daily requirement of vitamin A per cup. Vitamin A is a nutrient that supports healthy eyesight, particularly night vision as it aids in the function of the retina and prevents the development of cataracts.
6. Red bell peppers aid in weight loss. One cup of sliced red bell pepper provides only 31 calories and no fat or cholesterol. Moreover, you can burn more calories by consuming red bell peppers as they can activate thermogenesis and increase metabolic rate. Red bell peppers do not contain capsaicin that imparts heat to other peppers. Consequently, they have a mild thermogenic action that boosts your metabolism without increasing the heart rate or blood pressure like other varieties of peppers.
7. Half a cup of red bell pepper provides about 1 gram of fiber which facilitates healthy digestion and maintains cholesterol levels. It also offers protection against colon cancer and helps in the treatment of constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.
8. Red bell peppers can form part of a healthy diet containing a variety of fruits and vegetables which reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as stroke, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and some type of cancers.
9. Red bell pepper provides 7 percent of the daily value of potassium per cup. This mineral is needed by the body for regulating the level of fluid inside and outside the cells, contraction of heart muscle, and intestinal peristalsis which helps in elimination of waste from the body.
10. By facilitating iron absorption, vitamin C in red bell peppers aids in the formation of bone collagen, cartilage, muscles and blood vessels.
Red Bell Pepper: Skin Benefits
Red bell peppers contain twice the amount of vitamin C than their other varieties which makes them extremely beneficial for your skin. Some of their benefits for skin are as follows.
11. Vitamin C contained in red bell peppers helps to form collagen, a structural fiber that is needed to hold everything together. Collagen is required by your skin to remain healthy and even minor deficiencies in vitamin C can cause skin problems.
12. Red bell peppers are great sources of three cancer fighting carotenoids: lutein, beta-cryptoxanthin and zeaxanthin. Apart for being excellent for skin, these carotenoids help in reducing swelling caused by arthritis because of their high silicon content. Red bell pepper juice is also known for its healing qualities.
Red Bell Pepper: Hair Benefits
Apart from their health and skin benefits, red bell peppers are beneficial for your hair in the following ways.
13. As pointed out earlier, red bell peppers are great sources of vitamin C which is involved in the formation of collagen. Hair follicles require collagen to stay healthy and for optimum growth. Deficiencies of vitamin C can cause dry, splitting and brittle hair.
14. Red bell pepper can be very beneficial in preventing hair loss as it improves blood flow to stimulate hair growth and protects the hair follicles from the effect of DHT.
15. The spiciness of red bell pepper can help speed up hair growth by over 50 percent. Boil a few slices of red bell pepper in water for 10 minutes and cool it for 15 minutes. Then apply it on your scalp for 30 minutes and rinse away. Doing this regularly will stimulate hair growth.
Red bell peppers are a healthy option provided that you are not allergic to them. Also, ensure to store the red bell peppers away from meat to avoid them from getting infected by bacteria.
Hope you liked the article and would include more red bell pepper in your diet. Do leave us a comment.
Red Bell Pepper Recipe
Roasted Red Pepper Dip I
Ingredients
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, with liquid
- 1 (7 ounce) jar roasted red peppers
- 3/4 cup diced onion
- 1/3 cup red wine
- 5 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 fresh hot chile peppers, seeded and chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds
Directions
Prep Cook Ready In
15 m 30 m 4 h 45 m
- In a large saucepan, place diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, roasted red peppers, onion, red wine, brown sugar, hot chile peppers, tomato paste, distilled white vinegar, garlic, oregano and cumin seeds. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and allow mixture to simmer approximately 30 minutes.
- Place mixture in a blender, and blend to desired consistency. Chill in the refrigerator 4 hours, or until cold, before serving.
Negative Effects of Bell Pepper
Though there are no fatal or chronic side-effects associated with the use of capsicum it is advisable to use the plant on the advice of a trained medical practitioner pertaining to your condition. It is advisable for children, pregnant women and breast feeding mothers to keep their regular consumption of capsicum to a bare minimum. Known side-effects due to unguided consumption are diarrhea, heartburn and upset stomach.
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