All About Bell Peppers: Colors, Nutrition, and More

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated October 15, 2022

Bell pepper, also known as sweet pepper or a pepper (in the United Kingdom, Canada and Ireland) and capsicum (in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Australia, Singapore and New Zealand), is a cultivar group of the species Capsicum annuum. Cultivars of the plant produce fruits in different colors, including red, yellow, orange, green, chocolate/brown, vanilla/white, and purple. Bell peppers are sometimes grouped with less pungent pepper varieties as “sweet peppers.” Peppers are native to Mexico, Central America and northern South America. The ribs and seeds inside bell peppers may be consumed, but some find the taste to be bitter. Pepper seeds were carried to Spain in 1493 and from there spread to other European, African and Asian countries. Today, China is the world’s largest pepper producer, followed by Mexico and Indonesia. Ideal growing conditions for bell peppers include warm soil, ideally , that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Bell peppers are sensitive to an abundance of moisture and excessive temperatures.

In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about bell peppers, from their history to their nutritional value and uses in cooking.

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What’s the Deal with Bell Peppers?

Bell peppers are a type of fruit that are commonly referred to as vegetables. They come from the plant species Capsicum annuum, which is part of the nightshade family. Bell peppers are technically a fruit because they contain seeds and develop from the ovary of a flowering plant. They are typically rounded and bulbous in shape, with four squares formed by the placenta. Bell peppers are available year-round in supermarkets and are widely used in different cuisines around the world.

The Different Types of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including green, red, yellow, orange, and even white. The different colors are actually different stages of ripeness, with green being the least ripe and red being the most ripe. The green bell peppers are typically less sweet and more bitter than the other colors, while the red ones are the sweetest. There are also numerous cultivars of bell peppers, each with their own unique taste and heat level. Some of the most common cultivars include:

• Candy
• Grossum
• California Wonder
• Yolo Wonder
• Purple Beauty

The Heat Factor: What Causes the Spiciness?

Bell peppers are typically not spicy, but they do contain a compound called capsaicin, which is also found in hot peppers like jalapeños and serranos. Capsaicin is associated with the heat sensation and pungency that is commonly associated with spicy foods. The level of capsaicin in bell peppers is much lower than in hot peppers, which is why they are not typically considered spicy. However, some bell peppers, like the Hungarian wax pepper, can be spicy.

The Nutritional Value of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any diet. Bell peppers are also free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium, making them a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

How to Use Bell Peppers in Cooking

Bell peppers are a versatile produce that can be used in a variety of dishes, both raw and cooked. Some popular ways to use bell peppers include:

• Stuffed bell peppers
• Sautéed bell peppers
• Grilled bell peppers
• Roasted bell peppers
• Bell pepper stir-fry

Bell peppers are also commonly used in dishes like fajitas, salads, and pasta dishes. They can be sliced, diced, or chopped, and are a great way to add color and flavor to any dish.

The Bell Pepper: A Name by Any Other Name

The bell pepper, also known as the sweet pepper, is referred to by many names. It is commonly called the bell pepper due to its bell-like shape, but it is also simply known as the sweet pepper due to its lack of pungency. The word “pepper” in its name is a bit of a misnomer, as it refers to the fruit of the plant, which is not related to the spice we commonly refer to as pepper. The term “bell pepper” specifically refers to the cultivar of the plant Capsicum annuum that produces large, sweet, and mild peppers in a variety of colors.

The History of the Bell Pepper’s Name

The bell pepper is said to have originated in South America and was later carried to other parts of the world by Christopher Columbus. The plant was highly prized by chefs in Europe, where it was used in traditional dishes such as rice dishes and stews. The name “bell pepper” is thought to have originated in the United States, where the term was applied to the large, sweet peppers that were commonly grown. The term “bell” refers to the shape of the fruit, which is similar to that of a bell.

The Link to Other Names

The term “bell pepper” has since been extended to refer to any large, sweet pepper, regardless of its specific cultivar. The usage of the term is widely spread throughout the United States, and it is commonly used in recipes for fresh and cooked dishes alike. In other parts of the world, the bell pepper is known by different names. In French, it is referred to as “poivron,” while in Spain, it is known as “pimiento.” In Sri Lanka, it is called “maalu miris,” and in Pakistan, it is known as “shimla mirch.”

The Bell Pepper’s Place in the Nightshade Family

The bell pepper is a member of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Despite its membership in this family, the bell pepper is not a pungent spice like its relatives. The plant is grown in many parts of the world and is highly prized for its mild taste and versatility in cooking. The bell pepper is also unrelated to the spice we commonly refer to as pepper, which comes from the plant Piper nigrum.

The Bell Pepper’s Spread to Europe and Beyond

The bell pepper was introduced to Europe by Columbus and quickly became a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes. Europeans brought the plant with them as they spread throughout the world, and it is now grown in many different parts of the globe. The bell pepper is also known by different names in different parts of the world, but regardless of what it is called, it remains a highly prized and versatile ingredient in many different types of cuisine.

The Bell Pepper’s Nutritional Value

The bell pepper is a highly nutritious fruit, containing a variety of vitamins and minerals. According to the USDA, one medium-sized bell pepper contains the following nutrients:

• 24 calories
• 1 g protein
• 6 g carbohydrates
• 0.5 g fat
• 2 g fiber
• 3 g sugar
• 158 μg vitamin A
• 95 mg vitamin C
• 8 mg vitamin E
• 7 mg vitamin K

The bell pepper is also a good source of antioxidants and has been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Additionally, the bell pepper is a low-calorie food that can be used in a variety of dishes to add flavor and nutrition without adding a lot of extra calories.

The Rainbow of Bell Peppers: Understanding the Colors

Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including green, red, yellow, orange, and even purple. The color of the pepper depends on the stage of ripeness when it was harvested.

How Colors Appear

The color of a bell pepper is determined by the plant’s genetics and the amount of time it spends on the vine. As the pepper grows, it starts out green and then changes color as it ripens.

Colors Include Dark Red and Fully Green

The most common colors for bell peppers are green, red, and yellow. However, there are also dark red and fully green peppers that exist.

Parts of the Pepper That Turn Colors

The part of the pepper that turns color is the skin. The inside of the pepper maintains the same color throughout the ripening process.

Colors Depending on Ripening Time

The longer a pepper spends on the vine, the more time it has to ripen and change color. A green pepper will eventually turn yellow, then orange, and finally red if left on the vine long enough.

Simply Green

Green bell peppers are simply unripe fruits. They are harvested before they have a chance to ripen and turn a different color.

Permangreen Peppers

Some peppers are permagreen, meaning they will never change color no matter how long they are left on the vine. These peppers are usually green or mixed colored.

Mixed Colored Peppers

Mixed colored peppers are those that have different colors on the same pepper. For example, a pepper may be green on one end and red on the other.

Health Benefits of Different Colors

Each color of bell pepper has its own unique health benefits. For example, red peppers are high in vitamin C, while yellow peppers are high in vitamin A.

Next time you’re at the grocery store, take a look at the bell pepper section and see if you can spot all the colors of the rainbow. Remember, each color has its own unique flavor and health benefits, so don’t be afraid to mix it up and try something new!

The Flavorful World of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers can be consumed raw or cooked, and their flavor changes accordingly. Raw bell peppers have a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter taste, while cooked bell peppers are sweeter and more flavorful. Roasting bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and provides an exceptional earthy and smoky flavor. When stuffed, bell peppers become a filling and textured plate with innumerable options for cheesy, creamy, or aromatic fillings.

The Range of Bell Pepper Flavors

The flavor of bell peppers continues to change as they mature, and their sweetness develops. The bitterness of the seeds and the thickness of the pepper also affect the taste. The flavor of bell peppers can be subtly tangy, citrusy, or even spicy, depending on the variety. The ground bell pepper is also available, which is a bit bland in taste but provides a colorful addition to any dish.

Harvesting and Using Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are harvested when they are fully ripe and have a vibrant color. They are available year-round and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Bell peppers are commonly used as a stuffing for meat or as a side dish, and they are equally loved for their flavor and texture. The seeds can be toasted and used as a crunchy topping, and the carved bell peppers can be filled with a variety of fillings, both sweet and savory.

The Irresistible Uses of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are a perfect addition to any meal, and they can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Try a classic Creole dish with shrimp and bell peppers.
• Build a simple pasta dish with chicken and bell peppers.
• Use bell peppers as a base for a salad with sausage and onions.
• Test out a new recipe with Israeli tuna and bell peppers.

Peppers as a Grilling Favorite

Grilling bell peppers is a summer favorite. Here are some ideas to try:

• Grill bell peppers and serve them alongside a delicious steak.
• Use bell peppers to make a quick and easy meal on the grill.
• Make a foil pack with bell peppers and corn for a delicious meal.

Peppers as a Comp

Bell peppers are a perfect addition to any comp. Here are some ideas to try:

• Use bell peppers to make a classic Creole dish with shrimp and onions.
• Add bell peppers to your favorite pasta dish for a little extra flavor.
• Use bell peppers to make a delicious caponata with eggplant and tomatoes.

Get Creative in the Kitchen: Cooking with Bell Peppers

• Wash the bell peppers thoroughly before cutting them.
• Cut off the top and bottom of the bell pepper and stand it upright on the cutting board.
• Slice the bell pepper in half and remove the seeds and stem.
• Cut the bell pepper into strips or rings, depending on your recipe.

Grilling Bell Peppers

• Preheat your grill to medium heat.
• Place the bell pepper strips directly on the grill rack or on a small rectangular grill pan.
• Grill for a couple of minutes on each side until the edges are slightly charred and the peppers are tender.
• Remove from the grill and allow to cool slightly before removing the skins.
• Cut the grilled bell peppers into small pieces and add them to your dish.

Recipe Ideas

• Add grilled or sautéed bell peppers to your favorite pasta dish for a nice smoky flavor.
• Stuff roasted bell peppers with brie or passano cheese for an easy and delicious appetizer.
• Use sliced bell peppers as a topping for your favorite pizza.
• Add diced bell peppers to your meatball mixture for an extra veggie boost.
• Mix roasted bell peppers into your favorite dip for a sharp and flavorful kick.

The Nutritional Value of Bell Peppers: Why They’re a Healthy Addition to Your Diet

Bell peppers are not only sweet and delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients that are essential for good health. Whether you prefer red, green, or orange bell peppers, adding them to your diet can provide a range of benefits.

Key Nutrients

Bell peppers are rich in a variety of nutrients, including:

• Vitamin C: A single cup of chopped bell peppers provides over 200% of your daily requirement of vitamin C.
• Vitamin E: Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin E, which is essential for the production of red blood cells.
• Vitamin A: Bell peppers contain significant amounts of vitamin A, which is vital for healthy skin and eyes.
• Fiber: Bell peppers are a good source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Antioxidants: Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against damage caused by free radicals.
• Iron: Bell peppers contain small amounts of iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells.
• Protein: While not a significant source of protein, bell peppers do contain some protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Calorie and Carb Content

Bell peppers are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for those who are watching their weight or blood sugar levels. A single cup of chopped bell peppers contains:

• 29 calories
• 6 grams of carbohydrates
• 2 grams of fiber
• 3 grams of sugar (mainly glucose, fructose, and sucrose)

Health Benefits

Adding bell peppers to your diet can provide a range of health benefits, including:

• Lowering the risk of heart disease
• Reducing inflammation in the body
• Improving digestion
• Boosting the immune system
• Providing a good source of hydration (bell peppers are composed of 92% water)
• Helping to prevent certain types of cancer

Conclusion

So there you have it, the answer to the question “what is bell pepper?” is a type of fruit from a flowering plant species of the nightshade family. 

They’re great for adding flavor and texture to dishes, especially Mexican and Italian food. So the next time you’re at the supermarket, pick up a bell pepper and get cooking!

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Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

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Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.