Roasted Pepper Salad

Roasted Pepper Salad with Garlic - A Flavorful Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60-70 minutes
Servings: 8

In a world full of sophisticated dishes, roasted pepper salad remains a timeless favorite, easy to prepare and with an incredible taste. This ancient recipe is appreciated for its versatility and can be served as an appetizer or side dish alongside various main courses. Let's embark on the preparation of a delicious roasted pepper salad with garlic that will bring a splash of color and flavor to your table!

Ingredients:
- 2 kg peppers (preferably red or yellow, but you can also use green for a touch of acidity)
- 6 cloves of garlic (fresh, for an intense flavor)
- Oil (olive or vegetable oil, according to preference)
- Vinegar (wine or balsamic, depending on desired sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt (to taste)

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the peppers
Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Use a clean kitchen towel to thoroughly wipe the peppers, ensuring they are free of impurities. Once cleaned, coat them evenly with oil. This will not only help them roast but will also add a pleasant flavor. Place the peppers on the baking tray in a single layer to allow for even roasting.

Step 2: Roasting
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the tray with the peppers in the oven and let them roast for 30-40 minutes. Don't forget to check occasionally, turning them with a spatula to brown evenly on all sides. The peppers are ready when the skin becomes blackened and the inside is soft.

Step 3: Cooling and peeling the peppers
Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Sprinkle salt over them and cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let them cool completely; this step is essential as the steam will help loosen the skin. Once cooled, peel off the skin and, if desired, remove the stems as well. Place the peeled peppers in a colander to drain excess juice.

Step 4: Preparing the dressing
In a separate bowl, add the juice released by the peppers, along with salt, vinegar, oil, and sugar, tasting to adjust the proportions to your liking. The garlic can be added minced, but an interesting variation is to leave a few whole cloves for a rustic touch. Mix the dressing well.

Step 5: Assembling the salad
Add the peeled peppers to the bowl with the dressing and gently toss to coat them well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend and intensify.

Step 6: Serving
The roasted pepper salad is delicious both cold and at room temperature. You can serve it alongside fresh bread or as a side dish for meats or fish. It also makes an excellent accompaniment to cheeses or olives.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the peppers: Select well-ripened peppers with a firm texture for the best results. Red peppers offer a sweet flavor, while green ones are more tangy.
- Storing the salad: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator, and the flavors become even more intense after 1-2 days. It's perfect for preparing in advance for parties or festive meals.
- Variations: Experiment by adding olives, capers, or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits:
Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. They not only boost the immune system but also contribute to skin health. Garlic also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a beneficial ingredient for health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned peppers? While fresh roasted peppers are the best, you can use canned peppers for a quick option, but the flavor will be different.
- How can I customize the recipe? You can add spices like smoked paprika or oregano for a more complex taste.

Conclusion
Roasted pepper salad with garlic is a simple and delicious dish, ideal for any occasion. With a bit of patience and a few basic ingredients, you'll create a delicacy that will delight everyone's taste buds. Start today to explore the wonderful flavors of this classic recipe and turn it into a family favorite!