Discover the joy of making your own marinated peppers and onions at home. This recipe is not only simple and quick to prepare but also infuses a burst of flavor into any dish. Perfect for adding a gourmet touch to sandwiches, salads, or grilled meats, this homemade condiment is a game-changer in the kitchen. Follow these detailed steps to create your own jar of marinated peppers and onions, and you might never buy the store-bought version again.
Ingredients:
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 8 garlic cloves
- 1 medium red onion
- Fresh parsley (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A generous pinch of black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil (enough to fill the jar)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Cut the Peppers: Start by washing and drying one yellow bell pepper, one green bell pepper, and one red bell pepper. Remove the stems, seeds, and membranes, then slice the peppers into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Cutting the peppers into uniform sizes ensures even marination and a pleasant texture.
Chop the Garlic: Peel eight garlic cloves and slice them thinly. Thin slices of garlic will release more flavor into the marinade and blend well with the other ingredients.
Slice the Onion: Cut one medium red onion in half, peel off the outer layer, and slice it into thin rings or half-rings. The red onion adds a mild sweetness and a vibrant color to the mix.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Combine in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers, sliced red onion, and garlic. This step ensures that the vegetables are well mixed and evenly distributed in the jar.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the vegetables with fresh parsley to taste. Add 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the seasoning coats all the vegetables. Fresh parsley adds a bright, herby flavor, while oregano brings an earthy aroma that complements the peppers.
3. Transfer to a Jar:
Fill the Jar: Choose a clean, large mason jar or any airtight glass container. Carefully pack the mixed vegetables into the jar, pressing down gently to fit as many as possible while leaving some space at the top.
Add Olive Oil: Pour extra virgin olive oil into the jar until all the vegetables are fully submerged. The olive oil not only preserves the vegetables but also infuses them with a rich, smooth flavor. Ensure the oil covers the vegetables completely to prevent any spoilage.
4. Marinate:
Seal and Rest: Tightly close the jar with its lid and give it a gentle shake to mix everything well. Let the jar rest at room temperature for about 1 hour to kickstart the marination process, then transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 24 hours before using, so the flavors have time to meld together and develop fully.
5. Serve:
Enjoy: After 24 hours, your marinated peppers and onions are ready to enjoy. Use them as a flavorful addition to sandwiches, salads, wraps, or as a topping for grilled meats and fish. The vibrant colors and robust flavors will enhance any dish, making it more appetizing and delicious.
Cooking Notes:
- Vegetable Selection: While this recipe uses bell peppers and red onions, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added variety and flavor.
- Oil Substitution: While extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor, you can substitute it with regular olive oil or another mild-flavored oil if preferred.
- Storage: Store the jar of marinated peppers and onions in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks. Always ensure the vegetables remain submerged in oil to maintain freshness.
- Spice Variations: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeno peppers to the mix.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use different types of onions? Yes, you can use white or yellow onions if you prefer a different flavor profile. Red onions provide a mild sweetness, but any onion variety will work well.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover marinated peppers and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure the vegetables remain submerged in oil to prevent spoilage.
3. Can I add other herbs or spices? Absolutely! Feel free to add other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil. Spices like cumin or coriander can also enhance the flavor profile.
4. What if I don’t have extra virgin olive oil? You can use regular olive oil or any other mild-flavored oil. While extra virgin olive oil offers the best flavor, other oils can work as well.
5. Is this recipe suitable for canning? This recipe is best stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2 weeks. For longer storage, follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety.
Keto/Low Carb Version:
This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly due to the use of vegetables and olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 8 garlic cloves
- 1 medium red onion
- Fresh parsley (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A generous pinch of black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil (enough to fill the jar)
Instructions: Follow the same steps as the original recipe to create a delicious keto-friendly condiment.
This homemade marinated peppers and onions recipe is a delightful addition to your kitchen repertoire. It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes with its rich flavors and vibrant colors.
Call to Action: Try making this flavorful marinated peppers and onions recipe at home and let us know how it turns out! If you enjoy creating your own condiments and sides, leave a comment saying “I love homemade recipes” and share this with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
Enjoy making and savoring these delicious homemade marinated peppers and onions!
