Grilled Peppers

Grilled peppers are a simple but delicious dish and make a perfect side for many occasions. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• Red, yellow or green peppers to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Coarse salt
• Garlic (optional)
• Oregano or other aromatic herbs to taste (optional)

Preparation

1. Wash the peppers and dry them well.
2. Light the grill or a griddle and bring it to a high temperature.
3. Place the whole peppers on the grill and let them cook, turning occasionally, until the skin is black and fairly charred on all sides. This process should take about 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the peppers and the temperature of the grill.
4. Once the peppers are well grilled, transfer them to an airtight container or a food-grade plastic bag and let them rest for about 10 minutes. The moisture that forms will make them easier to clean.
5. After resting, remove the charred skin from the peppers, which should come off easily. Also remove the seeds and the inner white ribs.
6. Cut the peppers into strips or pieces as you prefer and arrange them in a bowl.
7. Season with extra virgin olive oil, coarse salt and, if you like, a finely chopped garlic clove and aromatic herbs such as oregano or thyme.
8. Let the grilled peppers marinate for at least an hour before serving so the flavors meld better.

Grilled peppers can be served at room temperature or chilled, as a side for grilled meat or fish, or even as an appetizer, perhaps accompanied by some good country bread.

Trivia

In Italy, especially in the South, grilled peppers are a classic of summer cuisine. They are sometimes enriched with capers, olives or anchovies for an even more Mediterranean flavor.