Pepper's Perfect Pairing

These grilled bell peppers and onions are a simple but flavorful side dish that can be paired with any main course. The vegetables are tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then grilled until they are slightly charred and softened. A sprinkling of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.

The history of grilled bell peppers and onions is a long and winding one, dating back to the early days of cooking over an open fire. In those days, vegetables were often grilled as a way to preserve them, and bell peppers and onions were no exception. Over time, grilling became a popular way to cook vegetables, and grilled bell peppers and onions became a staple of many cuisines around the world.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the peppers, onion, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until softened and slightly charred.
4. Remove from grill and sprinkle with cilantro.
5. Serve immediately.

Why It Works

• Grilling the vegetables over high heat helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the peppers and onions, resulting in a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
• The olive oil helps to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the grill and gives them a glossy finish.
• The salt and pepper help to enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
• The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the sweetness of the peppers and onions.