What to Do With Leftover Peppers – 10 Recipe Ideas

Are those leftover peppers in your fridge starting to lose their luster? Don’t let them go to waste!

In this article, we’ll show you 10 mouthwatering recipe ideas to transform those peppers into culinary masterpieces. From stuffed peppers to spicy pepper sauce, we’ve got you covered.

Get ready to unleash your inner chef and turn those forgotten peppers into a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Let’s get cooking!

10 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Peppers

If you find yourself with leftover peppers and are wondering what to do with them, don’t worry! There are numerous delicious ways to use them up.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Boats

To make stuffed bell pepper boats, you’ll need to hollow out the peppers and fill them with a delicious mixture of your choice.

Start by cutting off the tops of the peppers and removing the seeds and membranes. This will create a hollow cavity where you can stuff your filling.

The filling can be as simple or as complex as you like. Some popular options include a mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables, or a vegetarian option with quinoa, black beans, and corn.

Once you’ve filled the peppers, place them in a baking dish and cook them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.

The result is a satisfying, flavorful dish that makes a great main course or side dish. Enjoy!

Spicy Pepper Salsa

You can add a spicy kick to your dishes by making a delicious pepper salsa using the leftover bell peppers. Bell peppers are not only colorful and flavorful, but they also contain essential vitamins and minerals.

To make this fiery salsa, start by finely chopping the bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes. Next, combine the peppers with diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of salt and pepper. For an extra kick, you can add diced jalapenos or even some crushed red pepper flakes.

Mix everything together and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This pepper salsa is perfect for dipping tortilla chips, topping grilled meats, or adding some heat to tacos and burritos.

Pepperoni Pizza Topping

For a classic and flavorful topping, sprinkle some sliced pepperoni over your homemade pizza. Pepperoni is a popular choice for pizza lovers due to its delicious taste and ability to add a touch of spice to your pie.

When choosing pepperoni, opt for the thinly sliced variety, as it will crisp up nicely in the oven and release its rich flavors. The slightly greasy texture of the pepperoni provides a satisfying contrast to the melty cheese and savory tomato sauce.

As the pizza bakes, the pepperoni will curl up and create little cups of goodness that trap the delicious rendered fat. This results in crispy edges and a burst of flavor with every bite.

So go ahead and elevate your homemade pizza with a generous sprinkling of sliced pepperoni for that irresistible, classic taste.

Pepper Jack Quesadillas

When making pepper jack quesadillas, remember to use a generous amount of shredded cheese for that gooey and spicy kick.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat.

Spread butter on one side of each tortilla and place one tortilla in the skillet, butter side down.

Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded pepper jack cheese on top.

Add your desired fillings, such as cooked chicken, sautéed onions, and bell peppers.

Top with another tortilla, butter side up.

Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy.

Flip the quesadilla over and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the second tortilla is golden brown.

Remove from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing into wedges.

Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Pepper Jelly Appetizer

If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer, try incorporating pepper jelly into your next party spread.

Pepper jelly is a versatile condiment that adds a sweet and spicy kick to any dish. It is made by cooking down peppers with sugar and vinegar until it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. The result is a vibrant and tangy jelly that pairs perfectly with a variety of cheeses, crackers, and meats.

Simply spread a dollop of pepper jelly on a cracker and top it with your favorite cheese for a delicious bite-sized treat. You can also use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or as a dipping sauce for spring rolls. The possibilities are endless with pepper jelly, so get creative and impress your guests with this unique appetizer.

Roasted Bell Pepper Soup

Now that you’ve enjoyed the sweet and tangy Pepper Jelly Appetizer, let’s dive into another delicious recipe idea for your leftover peppers: Roasted Bell Pepper Soup.

This comforting and flavorful soup is the perfect way to utilize those extra bell peppers.

To make this soup, start by roasting the peppers until they are charred and tender. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor.

Then, sauté some onions and garlic in a pot until they are soft and fragrant. Add in the roasted peppers, vegetable broth, and a touch of cream for richness. Simmer everything together for a few minutes, then blend until smooth.

The result is a velvety smooth soup with a vibrant red color and a delightful balance of sweetness and savory notes. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Pepper and Egg Scramble

To make a delicious pepper and egg scramble, start by whisking together eggs, diced bell peppers, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

This simple and satisfying dish is perfect for breakfast or a quick and easy dinner.

First, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced bell peppers and cook them until they are slightly softened.

Next, pour in the beaten eggs and let them cook for a minute or two until they start to set. Gently stir the eggs and peppers together until the eggs are fully cooked and fluffy.

Serve the scramble on toast or in a tortilla for a tasty and filling meal.

Enjoy!

Pickled Pepper Condiment

For a tangy and flavorful addition to your meals, try making a pickled pepper condiment using a combination of vinegar, sugar, and diced peppers.

This condiment is a great way to use up any leftover peppers you may have. Start by choosing a variety of peppers, such as jalapenos, bell peppers, or banana peppers, to create a diverse flavor profile.

Slice the peppers into small pieces and place them in a jar. In a saucepan, heat vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the sugar dissolves. Pour the mixture over the peppers and let it cool.

The longer you let the peppers sit in the vinegar mixture, the more flavorful they will become. Use this pickled pepper condiment to add a zesty kick to sandwiches, burgers, salads, or even as a topping for tacos.

Enjoy the tangy goodness of homemade pickled peppers!

Pepper Steak Stir-Fry

If you’re craving a flavorful and quick dinner option, try making a delicious pepper steak stir-fry using thinly sliced beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory soy and ginger sauce.

This dish is a perfect way to use up any leftover peppers you have in your refrigerator.

To start, thinly slice your beef and marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add some oil. Once the oil is hot, add your beef and cook it until it is browned and cooked through.

Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add your sliced bell peppers and stir-fry them until they are crisp-tender.

Return the beef to the pan and add your soy and ginger sauce. Stir everything together until the sauce has thickened and coats the beef and peppers.

Serve your pepper steak stir-fry over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Pepper-Infused Olive Oil

When infusing olive oil with peppers, you’ll want to start by selecting a variety of peppers that suits your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a mild and sweet flavor or a fiery and spicy kick, there are countless pepper options to choose from. Consider using jalapenos for a medium heat level, habaneros for a more intense spice, or bell peppers for a milder taste.

Begin by washing and drying the peppers thoroughly. Next, remove the stems and seeds if desired, as they can add extra heat. Chop the peppers into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar. Fill the jar with olive oil, making sure all the peppers are submerged.

Let the mixture sit for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to infuse. Once ready, strain the oil to remove the pepper pieces, and you’ll be left with a deliciously flavored olive oil that can be used in a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over salads, use it as a marinade, or simply dip your bread in it for a flavorful treat. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Congratulations on discovering 10 delicious ways to use up those leftover peppers!

Now you have the knowledge to transform those unused peppers into mouthwatering dishes that will impress your family and friends.

Did you know that according to a recent study, food waste accounts for nearly 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions?

By utilizing leftover peppers and reducing food waste, you’re not only saving money, but also contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly future.

So go ahead and get cooking, knowing that you’re making a positive impact!