Sweet and Sour Bell Peppers with Rosemary

These Sweet and Sour Bell Peppers with Rosemary are a perfect balance of caramelized sweetness and tangy vinegar brightness. Soft, flavorful, and aromatic, they make a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or crusty bread. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar transforms simple peppers into a gourmet-style vegetable dish.

What Are Sweet and Sour Bell Peppers?

Sweet and sour bell peppers are a classic Mediterranean side dish where fresh peppers are caramelized in butter and sugar, then deglazed with vinegar for a tangy kick. Rosemary adds an herbal note that elevates the flavor.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
• Versatile—pairs with meat, fish, or vegetarian mains.
• Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes.
• Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free.
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for weeknights.

Cooking Tips

1. Cut peppers into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
2. Use red, yellow, and orange peppers for color variety and natural sweetness.
3. Let the sugar and butter caramelize before adding vinegar for depth of flavor.
4. Adjust vinegar to taste—more for tanginess, less for a sweeter dish.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes—prepare earlier in the day and serve at room temperature or gently reheat.

Can I Use White Wine Vinegar Instead?

Yes, but red wine vinegar adds a deeper, richer flavor.

What Main Dishes Pair Best?

Grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even pasta dishes work beautifully.

Can I Add Other Vegetables?

Yes—eggplant, onions, or zucchini complement the flavors well.

How Do I Make It Spicier?

Add chili flakes or fresh chili when cooking the peppers.

How to Freeze

Sweet and sour bell peppers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in a pan or serve at room temperature. Keep in mind that the peppers may be softer after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

How to Store

Store cooled sweet and sour bell peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

How To Make Sweet and Sour Bell Peppers

Step 1

Step 1

Prepare the Peppers:
Remove stems, seeds, and membranes. Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Peppers:
Remove stems, seeds, and membranes. Cut into bite-sized pieces.

Caramelize:
Melt butter in a large pan. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then add peppers. Cook until they begin to soften and brown.

Add Tanginess:
Deglaze with red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Step 2

Caramelize:
Melt butter in a large pan. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then add peppers. Cook until they begin to soften and brown.

Simmer:
Lower heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish:
Add fresh rosemary, toss to coat, and serve warm or at room temperature.