Jalapeno

• Use fresh jalapenos to make homemade salsa. Diced jalapenos add a wonderful, spicy element to fresh tomato salsa, fruit salsa, or even creamy avocado salsa. Control the heat by removing the seeds and membranes before dicing.
• Pickle jalapenos for a tangy, spicy condiment. Pickled jalapenos are great on nachos, sandwiches, tacos, and more. Quick pickling is easy to do at home, and you can adjust the brine to your preference.
• Stuff jalapenos with cheese and bake or fry them for delicious appetizers known as jalapeno poppers. Cream cheese and cheddar are popular fillings, but you can get creative with different cheeses and seasonings. For a healthier option, bake instead of frying.
• Add sliced jalapenos to your favorite pizzas for a spicy kick. Whether it's a classic pepperoni pizza or a gourmet vegetable pizza, jalapenos will definitely amplify the taste.
• Incorporate chopped jalapenos into cornbread batter for a savory and spicy twist. This adds depth of flavor to a classic side dish and is especially delicious with chili or barbecue.
• Blend jalapenos into hot sauces for a customizable heat level. Homemade hot sauce allows you to control the ingredients and create unique flavor combinations. Experiment with different peppers, vinegars, and spices.

• May aid weight management due to capsaicin's potential to boost metabolism.
• Good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
• Contains capsaicin, which may offer pain relief properties.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, potassium, and folate.
• May improve cardiovascular health by helping lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of capsaicin.

Jalapenos are best stored in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage. Place them in a plastic bag or container to minimize moisture loss. They can last for 1-2 weeks when refrigerated properly. For longer storage, consider pickling, drying, or freezing jalapenos. To freeze, wash, dry, and slice them before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen jalapenos may lose some of their crispness but will retain their flavor for several months.