August Vegetable of the Month: Bell Pepper

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A bounty of multicolored bell peppers freshly harvested from the farm.

A bounty of multicolored bell peppers freshly harvested from the farm.

FUN FACTS:

  • Bell peppers are actually classified as fruits because they contain seeds and are come from flowering plants

  • They can grow as tall as three feet

  • Green bell peppers are the less-ripened form of red, orange, and yellow bell peppers (and therefore less sweet!)

  • In Australia, bell peppers are called capsicums (their scientific name is capsicum annum)

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION AND HEALTH BENEFITS:

  • They contain important nutrients like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and dietary fiber

  • Bell peppers contain a hearty amount of both antioxidants and carotenoids 

RECIPE IDEAS:

  • Stuffed bell peppers make a great lunch or dinner option

  • Oven-roasted with onions and spices, they are a great addition to salads or sandwiches

  • Sliced raw and served with your favorite healthy dip