Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary bell peppers into a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Roasted Pepper and Goat Cheese recipe is not just a side dish—it's a gourmet experience that brings together the sweet, smoky essence of roasted peppers and the creamy, tangy richness of goat cheese. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or elevate your weeknight meal, this Italian-inspired creation promises to be a show-stopper that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 yellow bell peppers
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Wash the red and yellow bell peppers thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Cut each pepper in half, removing the stems, seeds, and inner membranes.
- Slice the peppers into uniform strips, approximately 1-inch wide, ensuring even roasting.
- Arrange the pepper strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each pepper strip is lightly coated.
- Season the peppers with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking. The peppers should be soft and slightly charred at the edges.
- While peppers are roasting, crumble the goat cheese into small pieces and set aside.
- Remove peppers from the oven and immediately transfer to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese over the warm roasted peppers.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the peppers and cheese, creating a glossy finish.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to slightly melt and flavors to meld.
- Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose peppers that are firm and vibrant in color for the best roasting results.
- Use parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary before roasting.
- Make sure to cut pepper strips uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Don't rush the roasting process—the slight char adds depth to the flavor profile.
- Serve immediately while the goat cheese is still warm and slightly melted for the most luxurious texture.
- For a more intense flavor, you can briefly broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after adding the goat cheese.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a topping for mixed green salads.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 239kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 30mg
