Sauteed Peppers and Onions

5.0 from 25 votes

Sauteed peppers and onions are a delicious and versatile side dish that goes together with a wide range of meals. With a few simple ingredients and a hot skillet, you can create a dish that is both healthy and flavorful. 

To make the best sauteed peppers and onions, all you need are four ingredients: peppers, onions, garlic and olive oil. First, heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onions, then peppers.

Stir the vegetables occasionally, and cook them until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The entire process should take around 10 minutes, depending on how much you are cooking.

Sauteed peppers and onions are a great addition to steak fajitas, sandwiches, tacos, pizza, or any other dish that could benefit from a burst of color and flavor. They are also rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients, making them a healthy choice for any meal. With this easy recipe, you can create a perfect side dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 large sweet onion (you can use white onions or red onions), sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced (you can use yellow peppers too)
• Salt and pepper, to taste 

When selecting peppers for sautéing, it is important to choose ones that are firm and have a smooth, shiny skin. Green peppers, red bell peppers, sweet bell peppers, yellow bell pepper, and orange bell pepper are all great options. Choose the color that you prefer or mix them together for a colorful dish.

How to Make Sauteed Peppers and Onions Recipe

To prepare the peppers, cut off the top and bottom of the pepper and remove the stem and seeds. Then, cut the pepper into thin strips. For onions, cut off the top and bottom of the onion, cut it in half, and remove the skin. Then, cut the onion into thin slices.

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add sliced yellow onions and minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the onions start to soften and the garlic is fragrant. 

​Then add the sliced green and red peppers to the sauteed onions and continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Stir the vegetables frequently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan and cook until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The cooking process time will vary depending on the size of the vegetables and your preferred level of doneness, but it usually takes around 10 minutes.

To enhance the sweet flavor of the sautéed peppers and onions, add some Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. These spices will give your dish a delicious aroma and flavor that will make it stand out. Use olive oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil to sauté the peppers and onions. These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can be heated to high temperatures without burning and will add a subtle flavor to the dish.

If you have leftover sautéed peppers and onions, the easy way to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

Sautéed peppers and onions are a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. They’re perfect for adding color and flavor to tacos, beef steak fajitas, sandwiches, burgers, and more. You can also serve them as a topping for grilled chicken kabobs or a great side dish for roasted vegetables.

To enhance the flavor of the peppers and onions, try adding herbs and seasonings like dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary. A splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can also add a tangy kick to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cut peppers and onions for sautéing?

When preparing peppers and onions for sautéing, it is best to cut them into thin slices or strips. This will allow them to cook evenly and quickly. Don’t forget to remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before slicing them.

How can I ensure my peppers and onions don’t become soggy when sautéing?

To prevent your peppers and onions from becoming soggy when sautéing, make sure to not overcrowd the pan. If there are too many vegetables in the pan, they will release too much moisture and become mushy. Also, be sure to sauté them over medium to high heat so they cook quickly and don’t have a chance to release too much liquid.

What seasonings work well with sautéed peppers and onions?

Sautéed peppers and onions are versatile and can be seasoned with a variety of spices and herbs. Some common seasonings that work well include garlic, taco seasoning, chili powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Salt and black pepper are also essential for bringing out the flavors of the vegetables.

Can sautéed peppers and onions be frozen for later use?

Yes, sautéed peppers and onions can be frozen for later use. I recommend allowing them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I sauté peppers and onions without them sticking to the pan?

To prevent peppers and onions from sticking to the pan, make sure to heat the oil before adding the vegetables. Once the oil is hot, add the peppers and onions and spread them out in an even layer. Avoid stirring them too frequently, as this can cause them to release more moisture and stick to the pan.