Imagine transforming ordinary bell peppers into a mouthwatering, guilt-free delicacy that will make your taste buds dance and your waistline cheer! These Weight Watchers Freestyle Roasted Red Peppers are not just a side dish – they're a culinary revelation that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a versatile, nutrient-packed dish that can elevate everything from salads to sandwiches, all while keeping your wellness goals on track.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Wash the red bell peppers thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them dry completely with clean paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, cut each pepper in half. Remove the stems, seeds, and white membranes from the inside of the peppers, creating clean, open halves.
- Place the pepper halves skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Drizzle olive oil evenly over the peppers, using a pastry brush or your hands to coat each pepper half completely.
- Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and garlic powder uniformly over the peppers, ensuring even seasoning.
- Roast the peppers in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the skin becomes slightly charred and blistered, and the peppers are soft and tender.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the peppers rest for 5 minutes to allow them to cool slightly.
- Optional: For easier peeling, place the hot peppers in a sealed paper bag or covered bowl for 10 minutes. The steam will help loosen the skin.
- Serve warm as a side dish, or slice and use in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for proteins.
Tips
- Choose peppers that are firm, vibrant red, and free from blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to pat the peppers completely dry before roasting to achieve that perfect char and prevent steaming.
- Use high-quality olive oil and don't be shy with seasoning – the right amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can transform these peppers.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting.
- If you want to remove the skin easily, the paper bag steaming trick is your secret weapon – it helps the skin slip off effortlessly.
- These peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great meal prep option.
- Experiment with different serving styles – they're amazing in omelets, as a pizza topping, or blended into a smooth, smoky dip.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
