Bell Peppers: Tips and Tricks

It’s important to make half of your plate fruits and vegetables. One great option is bell peppers!

Bell peppers are a warm season vegetable that grows during the summer and early fall. They come in several different colors. Did you know that red, yellow, and orange bell peppers all start out green? The different types of bell peppers have more to them than just color! Green bell peppers are categorized in the “other” vegetable subgroup. They tend to be more bitter, as they have twice the amount of vitamin C as citrus fruits. Yellow, orange, and red peppers are categorized in the “red and orange” subgroup. They are sweeter and high in vitamin A, which supports your immune system.

At the store, make sure to choose firm, brightly-colored peppers with green stems. They should feel heavy for their size. Watch out for dull, wrinkly peppers with black or soft spots. Peppers can be refrigerated whole for up to 5 days unwashed, or 1-3 days if cut and stored in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for later!

As you can see, bell peppers are a super veggie! Not only are they great for you, they’re also versatile. They can be cut in different ways, eaten raw, or added to other dishes. Experiment with different ways of eating them to find out what you like!

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