Bell Peppers: The Rainbow Veggie with a Crunch

Bell peppers, also known simply as peppers or capsicums, are colorful, crunchy vegetables that are as versatile as they are nutritious. Available in a rainbow of colors including green, red, yellow, and orange, bell peppers are a staple in a variety of dishes from stir-fries to fajitas. In this listicle, we’re taking a closer look at the characteristics, health benefits, and nutritional profile of bell peppers, a favorite ingredient for chefs and home cooks alike.

Characteristics

Type: Fruit, but commonly categorized as a vegetable
Origin: Native to Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America
Color: Green, red, yellow, orange, and even purple or chocolate brown
Shape: Bell-shaped with a hollow interior
Taste: Sweet, mildly tangy, and crisp
Texture: Crispy and juicy
Growing Season: Late spring through early fall; some varieties are grown year-round
Storage: Refrigerate in a produce drawer for up to 1-2 weeks
Cooking Methods: Eaten raw, grilled, roasted, sautéed, or stuffed

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Bell peppers are packed with various antioxidants, most notably vitamin C and carotenoids.

2. Excellent Source of Vitamin C

Just one medium-sized bell pepper can provide up to 169% of the RDA for vitamin C.

3. Low in Calories

They are low in calories and can be included in weight management diets.

4. May Improve Eye Health

The high levels of beta-carotene and lutein are good for eye health.

5. Promotes Skin Health

Vitamins A and C contribute to maintaining healthy, glowing skin.

6. May Help Lower Cholesterol

Some studies suggest that the nutrients in bell peppers may have a cholesterol-lowering effect.

7. Aids in Digestion

The fiber content in bell peppers helps to maintain a healthy digestive system.

8. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Contains bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Nutritional Table (Per 100g Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	20	1%
Protein	0.9g	2%
Total Fat	0.2g	<1%
Carbohydrates	4.6g	2%
Fiber	1.7g	7%
Sugar	2.4g	–
Calcium	10mg	1%
Iron	0.4mg	2%
Magnesium	12mg	3%
Phosphorus	20mg	2%
Potassium	175mg	5%
Sodium	3mg	<1%
Zinc	0.1mg	1%
Vitamin A	370 IU	7%
Vitamin C	80.4mg	134%
Vitamin K	4.9mcg	6%
Folate	10mcg	3%
Vitamin B6	0.2mg	11%

Bell peppers are more than just a colorful addition to your plate. Their crisp texture and sweet flavor make them an ideal ingredient for a wide variety of dishes, while their impressive nutrient profile makes them a great choice for a healthy diet. The next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to pick up some bell peppers to enjoy their myriad health benefits!

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Synonyms:

peppers, capsicums

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