banana pepper

Banana Pepper

Banana peppers, also known as yellow wax peppers, are mild, slightly sweet peppers characterized by their elongated, curved shape and bright yellow-green color that matures to orange or red. These versatile peppers offer a subtle tang with a Scoville heat unit (SHU) rating of 0-500, making them much milder than jalapeños. Their crisp, waxy texture adds a pleasant crunch to various dishes. When searching for delicious and easily digestible additions to your favorite meals, consider incorporating banana peppers for their unique flavor and health benefits.

Common Uses

  • Pickled Banana Peppers for Sandwiches and Salads: Elevate your sandwiches, salads, and antipasto platters with tangy pickled banana peppers. Their slightly sweet and acidic flavor provides a delightful contrast to rich meats and creamy cheeses, adding a crisp, refreshing element. Many enjoy the subtle heat and bright flavor of pickled banana peppers as a healthy alternative to heavier condiments.
  • Banana Pepper Rings as Pizza Toppings: Incorporate banana pepper rings as a vibrant and flavorful pizza topping. Their mild heat and subtle sweetness complement other pizza ingredients like pepperoni, sausage, and mozzarella, adding a unique layer of complexity to your homemade or takeout pizza. Consider adding them to your pizza for a flavorful kick.
  • Stuffed Banana Peppers with Cheese and Sausage: Create satisfying stuffed banana peppers filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and aromatic herbs. These baked or grilled stuffed peppers are a delicious appetizer or light meal, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This method is excellent for catering, potlucks, or appetizers to any dinner meal.
  • Grilled Banana Peppers as a Side Dish: Grill banana peppers alongside your favorite meats or vegetables for a smoky, slightly charred side dish. Grilling enhances their natural sweetness and adds a hint of smokiness, making them a perfect accompaniment to barbecued dishes. Season simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. This simple, yet delicious side dish is a perfect alternative to roasting or steaming.
  • Banana Pepper Relish for Burgers and Hot Dogs: Prepare a zesty banana pepper relish to top your burgers, hot dogs, and sausages. Combine diced banana peppers with onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices for a sweet and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your favorite grilled foods. This relish is a great alternative to ketchup or mustard and introduces a new flavor profile to common foods.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

2.5kcal (0.13%)

Protein

0.1g (0.2%)

Carbs

0.6g (0.22%)

Sugars

0.3g (0.6%)

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
  • Good source of Vitamin B6, important for brain development and function.
  • Contains capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
  • Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
  • Provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.

Storage Tips

Banana peppers are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness and flavor. Place them in a plastic bag or container to prevent them from drying out. They typically last for 1-2 weeks when stored properly. For longer storage, consider pickling or freezing them. To freeze, blanch the peppers briefly, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag.

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