pimento strips
Pimento strips are rich in vitamin C and contain moderate amounts of vitamin A and antioxidants including capsanthin. They are low in calories (approximately 29–40 per 100g fresh) and contain minimal sodium when stored in water, though oil-packed varieties are more calorie-dense.
About
Pimento strips are thin slices of pimento peppers, a variety of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum var. pimentero) originating from the Balkans and Mediterranean regions. Pimento peppers are elongated, heart-shaped fruits with thick, mild flesh and a naturally sweet flavor profile. The peppers are typically roasted and skinned to create the characteristic tender, succulent strips. Fresh pimentos have a bright red color and subtle fruity sweetness, while canned or jarred pimento strips are shelf-stable preparations that retain their tender texture and characteristic mellow flavor.
The name "pimento" derives from the Spanish/Portuguese term for pepper. Unlike hot chili peppers, pimentos are inherently mild—rarely exceeding 100 SHU (Scoville Heat Units)—making them accessible for diverse palates. They are distinct from paprika peppers though sometimes confused with roasted red peppers in commercial contexts.
Culinary Uses
Pimento strips serve as a versatile garnish and ingredient across Mediterranean, Spanish, and American cuisines. In Spanish cuisine, they are traditional in dishes like pa amb tomàquet and as a topping for pintxos. They commonly fill green olives and appear in cheese boards, cold vegetable preparations, and antipasti platters. In American Southern cooking, pimentos feature in pimento cheese—a regional specialty combining the strips with sharp cheddar. The strips are also incorporated into salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, and cured meat preparations. Their tender texture makes them suitable for both cold applications and gentle heating; prolonged cooking can diminish their delicate character.