Peperonata Recipe
Introduction
Peperonata is a vibrant Italian pepper stew that bursts with sweet and tangy flavors. This simple, slow-cooked dish is perfect as a side or a topping for bread, delivering a comforting and rich vegetable medley.

Ingredients
- 3 tbsp oil
- 3 finely sliced shallots
- 3 tbsp tomato purée
- 4 crushed garlic cloves
- 3 finely sliced peppers
- 2 roughly chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the shallots and tomato purée along with a pinch of salt.
- Step 2: Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallots caramelize and soften.
- Step 3: Stir in the crushed garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the finely sliced peppers and roughly chopped tomatoes to the pan.
- Step 5: Cook the mixture for 25-30 minutes, stirring now and then, until it becomes thick and jammy.
- Step 6: Stir in the red wine vinegar and adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
- Step 7: Remove from heat and allow to cool before storing or serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of colored peppers (red, yellow, and orange) for a more vibrant dish.
- Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat.
- Serve peperonata with toasted bread, grilled meats, or stirred into pasta for added flavor.
Storage
Store peperonata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy cold as a flavorful topping. It also freezes well for longer storage.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make peperonata in advance?
Yes, peperonata tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to four days.
What can I serve with peperonata?
Peperonata pairs beautifully with grilled meats, as a sauce over pasta, or simply served on toasted bread for a delicious appetizer or side.
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Peperonata Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 mins
- Yield: Serves 4 as a side or condiment 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peperonata is a rich, jammy Italian vegetable stew made from caramelized shallots, crushed garlic, sweet peppers, and ripe tomatoes, finished with a splash of red wine vinegar. This versatile dish is perfect as a side or a topping for flatbreads and pasta dishes, offering a deeply flavorful and aromatic experience with each bite.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp oil
- 3 finely sliced shallots
- 3 tbsp tomato purée
- 4 crushed garlic cloves
- 3 finely sliced peppers
- 2 roughly chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil and cook shallots: Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely sliced shallots and tomato purée along with salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are caramelized and softened.
- Add garlic: Stir in the crushed garlic cloves and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add peppers and tomatoes: Mix in the finely sliced peppers and roughly chopped tomatoes. Continue to cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring now and then, until the mixture becomes thick, jammy, and the vegetables are fully softened.
- Finish with vinegar and seasoning: Stir in the red wine vinegar and season the peperonata to taste with additional salt if needed.
- Cool and store: Allow the peperonata to cool and transfer it into an airtight container. Keep refrigerated and use within four days.
- Serving suggestion: Use this flavorful peperonata as a topping for lemony flatbreads with broccoli & mascarpone or as a complement to lemon orzo with trout.
Notes
- Use a large frying pan to allow even cooking and caramelization of vegetables.
- The cooking time ensures the peppers and tomatoes break down and develop a jam-like consistency.
- Red wine vinegar adds a slight acidity that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Peperonata can be stored in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight container.
- Great as a versatile condiment or side dish for a variety of Mediterranean meals.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35-40 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Peperonata, Italian vegetable stew, caramelized peppers, tomato purée, red wine vinegar, Mediterranean side dish, vegan, gluten free

