Pepper sauce with garlic

Pepper Salsa with Garlic - A Delicacy for Any Meal

Who doesn't love a savory sauce that perfectly complements their favorite dishes? Pepper salsa with garlic is a fantastic choice, not only for delicious meatballs but also for steaks or grilled vegetables. This simple yet flavorful recipe can transform any meal into a memorable culinary experience. Let's discover together how to prepare this aromatic salsa!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium peppers (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of tomatoes (or a fresh tomato, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomato)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the peppers and tomato well. If you wish, you can roast the peppers beforehand to remove the skin. This method will add a smoky note to the sauce, but it's not mandatory. If you're short on time, direct frying in the pan will work perfectly.

2. Heating the oil: In a medium saucepan, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil is not just a staple ingredient but also a source of healthy fats filled with antioxidants.

3. Frying the garlic: Add the 4 cloves of garlic, cut in half or left whole. Fry them until golden, being careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter note. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, so don't hesitate to include it in your diet.

4. Adding the bay leaf: Once the garlic is fried, add the bay leaf. This will infuse the salsa with a delicate fragrance, bringing a note of complexity to the flavor.

5. Frying the peppers: Cut the peppers into larger slices and add them to the saucepan. Fry them for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and release their flavors. They are full of essential vitamins, such as vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.

6. Adding the tomato and sugar: After the peppers have softened, add the canned tomato and the teaspoon of sugar. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomato, bringing a pleasant and sweet taste. Let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste. It's important to taste the salsa at this stage to adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.

8. Blending: Once the mixture is ready, transfer everything to a blender. Blend the salsa until it becomes a smooth paste. This can be adjusted according to personal preferences; for a more rustic texture, leave some larger pieces.

9. Serving: Pepper salsa with garlic is ideal to be served alongside meatballs of any kind or grilled vegetables. It also works exceptionally well as a dip for tortilla chips or fresh vegetables.

Practical tips:
- If you want a spicy note, add a bit of hot pepper or chili flakes during frying.
- The salsa can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Possible variations include adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
This salsa is rich in vitamins and antioxidants from peppers and tomatoes, with a low calorie content (about 70 calories per serving). It's an excellent choice for a healthy diet, also providing healthy fats from olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables instead of peppers? Absolutely! Fried zucchini or eggplant can add a unique flavor.
- How can I make the salsa thicker? Add a bit of cornstarch diluted in water for a creamier consistency.
- Is the salsa suitable for vegans? Certainly! This is a completely vegan recipe.

Ideal combinations:
This salsa pairs perfectly with pork or chicken steaks, as well as vegetarian dishes. You can enjoy it alongside a glass of fresh white wine or a craft beer, which will highlight the rich flavors of the sauce.

Pepper salsa with garlic will surely win you over with its simplicity and refinement. Experiment with the ingredients and add a touch of your personality to this classic recipe! Enjoy your meal!