Discover the comforting flavours of Grandma’s green pepper peperonata – a simple, healthy side dish made with roasted green peppers, garlic, and tomato sauce. Perfect served warm or cold.
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I absolutely love all thing peppers, especially peperonata. This recipe is on my summer weekly rotation along with other staples such as Caponata, Mediterranean Veggies, Lebanese Moussaka or Jackfruit Peperonata.
Why I love this simple recipe
This green pepper peperonata is more than just a recipe to me—it’s a bowlful of memories. My grandma, who passed away over 20 years ago, used to make it every summer, filling the house with the unmistakable scent of roasted peppers and sweet tomato sauce. After she was gone, my dad lovingly took over, keeping her tradition alive and the flavour just as I remembered. Now that I live abroad, far from the kitchens I grew up in, making this dish has become my way of holding onto them both. Every time I cook it, it’s like I’m back at that family table—sunlight pouring in, a pot simmering on the stove, and love served with every bite.
A Taste of Tradition, Made Simple
This easy green pepper peperonata is a comforting, old-school Italian dish passed down through generations – and it just happens to be vegan! Made with long green peppers, juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil, it’s a rustic side that shines with minimal ingredients and maximum flavour.
Whether served alongside crusty bread, as part of an antipasto platter, or spooned over pasta or grains, this recipe brings the taste of Southern Italy right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Method (Step-by-Step)
STEP 1 - Roast the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Wash and dry the green peppers. Cut them lengthwise, remove the seeds, then slice crosswise into large strips. Arrange them in a single layer on a large baking tray.
Drizzle with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and season with salt. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through until the peppers are soft and slightly caramelised.
STEP 2 - Make the Tomato Sauce
While the peppers roast, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a medium pan or wok along with the crushed garlic. Heat gently for 1–2 minutes to allow the garlic to infuse the oil.
Next, pour in the chopped tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cover with a lid. Simmer on medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and deepens in flavour.
STEP 3 - Combine and Simmer
Once the peppers are done roasting, transfer them to the tomato sauce. Stir well so the peppers are fully coated, then simmer everything together for another 15 minutes. This helps the flavours marry and gives the peperonata that classic "cooked down" richness.
STEP 4 - Finish and Serve
Tear in some fresh basil leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Allow the peperonata to cool to room temperature before serving.
How to Serve Green Pepper Peperonata
Peperonata is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy it:
- As a side dish – Perfect with grilled tofu, plant-based sausages, or alongside vegan schnitzel.
- In a sandwich – Layer inside ciabatta with hummus or vegan cheese.
- Over pasta or rice – Add an extra drizzle of olive oil for a quick meal.
- Part of a meze or antipasto platter – Serve with olives, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread.
Health Benefits of This Peperonata
This humble dish is packed with nutrition:
- Green peppers are high in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants.
- Garlic offers immune-boosting properties and gut health support.
- Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
- Olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats.
It’s naturally gluten-free, low in saturated fat, and fully plant-based – great for anyone following a Mediterranean or whole food vegan lifestyle.
Storage Tips
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavour gets even better the next day!
Peperonata can also be frozen – portion it out into freezer-safe containers and thaw when needed for a quick side or lunchbox filler.
Pair It With
- A hearty lentil stew or grilled mushroom steaks
- A refreshing Italian cucumber salad, potato salad or panzanella
- Crusty sourdough or focaccia
- Chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Final Thoughts
Grandma's green pepper peperonata is a celebration of simplicity – no fancy ingredients, just bold, homely Mediterranean flavour. Whether you're recreating your Nonna’s kitchen vibes or discovering peperonata for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a staple.
Let it cool, spoon it onto bread, or enjoy straight from the pan. However you serve it, it’s comfort food at its finest.
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