medium-sized yellow bell pepper
Excellent source of vitamin C (approximately 150-185 mg per medium pepper), vitamin B6, and antioxidants including lutein and zeaxanthin; low in calories at roughly 30-37 per medium fruit.
About
Yellow bell peppers are the mature fruit of Capsicum annuum, a species of nightshade plant native to Mexico and Central America. The fruit develops from green immature peppers, with yellow coloration indicating medium ripeness—typically sweeter and less bitter than green varieties, though milder than fully mature red peppers. Medium-sized specimens measure approximately 3-4 inches in length and diameter, with thick walls containing a single cavity of seeds surrounded by crisp, firm flesh. The flavor profile is distinctly sweet with mild peppery undertones and a clean, crisp texture.
Culinary Uses
Yellow bell peppers are versatile vegetables used across numerous cuisines, from Mediterranean to Asian cooking. They are commonly sliced raw for salads and crudités, diced for stir-fries, or roasted to enhance natural sweetness. In Spanish cuisine, they feature prominently in soffritos and paellas; in Italian cooking, they appear in caponata and peperonata. The medium size makes them ideal for stuffing whole, and they are frequently grilled, sautéed as a foundational vegetable, or blended into soups and sauces. Their natural sweetness pairs well with proteins, grains, and other vegetables.