green peppers - 6 medium size

The green pepper is the unripe fruit of Capsicum annuum, a member of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family native to Central and South America. Green peppers are harvested before the fruit reaches maturity and develops its characteristic red, yellow, or orange hue. They feature a crisp, firm texture with thick-walled compartments and a subtle, grassy flavor profile with a slight bitterness and vegetal bite. The flavor is notably less sweet than their mature counterparts, making them distinctly more assertive on the palate.

Green peppers are fundamental vegetables in Mediterranean, Latin American, and Asian cuisines, commonly used both raw and cooked. They are core ingredients in soffritto (Italian), sofrito (Spanish), and the French mirepoix vegetable base, providing aromatic depth to stews, soups, and sauces. Raw green peppers appear in salads, slaws, and crudités, while roasted or sautéed preparations are featured in dishes such as fajitas, stir-fries, ratatouille, and stuffed pepper recipes. The vegetal character pairs well with olive oil, garlic, onions, and acidic elements like vinegar and citrus.