Lecio (a snack made from peppers)

Lecio - Delicious Snack Made from Sweet Peppers

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful snack, Lecio is the perfect recipe for you. This simple dish, which takes only 15 minutes to prepare, perfectly combines the sweetness of peppers with the acidity of onions and vinegar, offering a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. Lecio is not only a delicious choice, but it also retains most of its vitamins, making it an excellent option for those who want to eat healthily.

The history of Lecio is remarkable, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. This snack is often served alongside meat or potato dishes, making it a perfect accompaniment for summer meals or gatherings with family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients you need:
- Fresh peppers (4-8 pieces, depending on the desired size)
- 1 large onion
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- A handful of fresh dill
- 100 ml of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- A pinch of sugar
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the peppers thoroughly under cold running water, then remove the seeds and cut them into larger slices. Make sure the slices are of uniform thickness so they cook evenly. Peel and chop the onion into large cubes to add a pleasant texture to the dish.

2. Heating the oil: In a medium-sized skillet, add the olive oil and let it heat up well. The oil should be hot enough to fry the peppers without fully cooking them, so they retain their crunchy texture.

3. Frying the peppers: When the oil is hot, add the pepper slices and fry them for 3-4 minutes, turning them on all sides. The goal is to give them a slight caramelized flavor without cooking them completely. Remove the fried peppers to a bowl and set aside.

4. Frying the onion: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and fry it for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and soft. This will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish.

5. Adding the tomato paste: Once the onion is ready, add the tomato paste and a pinch of sugar. Mix well and let it simmer for 2 minutes to intensify the flavors.

6. Adding water and seasonings: Add 60-80 ml of warm water and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Finalizing the dish: Pour the onion and tomato mixture over the fried peppers. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar and the finely chopped dill, mixing everything well to combine the flavors.

8. Serving: Lecio can be served immediately, warm, but it is especially tasty the next day when the flavors have had time to develop. It pairs perfectly with a piece of grilled meat or baked potatoes.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of peppers, such as hot peppers, to add a spicy note to the dish.
- Lecio is a versatile snack that can also be served cold, making it ideal for picnics or parties.
- Don't forget to store leftovers in the fridge; their flavor will intensify and they will become an excellent choice for a quick meal in the following days.

Nutritional benefits:
Peppers are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. They also contain antioxidants and are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for those who want to eat healthily. Onions, on the other hand, provide fiber and health-beneficial compounds.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peppers? - While fresh peppers provide the best texture and flavor, you can also use frozen peppers. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
2. What other seasonings can I add? - You can experiment with seasonings like paprika, pepper, or even garlic for an extra flavor boost.
3. Can Lecio be made vegan? - Certainly, you can adapt the recipe by eliminating the tomato paste or using vegan alternatives.

Lecio is a recipe that not only combines flavors but also brings a touch of joy to every meal. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite!