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Hello my dear friends who are cooks and passionate about good, healthy and delicious cuisine! Today, I’m going to talk to you about a vegetable that you probably already have in your kitchen, but of which you may be unaware of all the benefits: peppers. Oh yes, this colorful vegetable that brightens up our salads and hot dishes has much more to offer than its crunchiness and beautiful color.
Rich in vitamins C and B6, peppers are a real nutritional bomb. It also contains essential minerals like potassium, manganese and copper. But did you know that red peppers contain twice as much vitamin C as green peppers? And what’s more, it is a great ally for those looking to lose weight, thanks to its very low calorie content and its ability to stimulate metabolism.
So how about we explore together the wonders that peppers can bring to your plate and your health? I suggest you discover some delicious and nutritious recipes, as well as advice for choosing and storing your peppers. So put on your apron and follow me in this article full of flavors and colors!
Understanding the health benefits of bell pepper
Vitamins present in peppers and their benefits
Peppers are a gold mine of vitamins, especially vitamin C as well as vitamin B6. Little tip: did you know that red pepper contains twice as much vitamin C as green pepper? Vitamin C, in addition to strengthening our immune system, has an antioxidant effect that protects our cells against damage caused by free radicals. As for vitamin B6, it plays an essential role in the health of our nervous system and helps our body metabolize proteins.
Minerals and other valuable nutrients in pepper
But vitamins aren’t the only stars in peppers. There is also a good dose of minerals : potassium, manganese, and copper. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, manganese is a cofactor in several enzymes important for energy metabolism, and copper is essential for the production of red blood cells.
Pepper, a slimming ally
Pepper in a low-calorie diet
Notice to all those looking to lose a few pounds: peppers are a great ally! With a very low calorie content (only 31 calories per 100g), you can consume it without guilt. In addition, with its high amount of fiber, it helps you feel fuller for longer, avoiding small snacks between meals.
Boost your metabolism with pepper
Another slimming asset, pepper can stimulate metabolism, thanks in particular to capsaicin that it contains. This substance increases thermogenesis (heat production) in our body, helping to burn more calories.
Include bell pepper in your daily diet
Healthy and delicious recipes with pepper
The pepper is so versatile and can be cooked in a thousand ways: in salad, fried, gratin, stuffed… Here are some recipes to try:
- Grilled pepper salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar
- Pan-fried peppers with shrimp and quinoa
- Red pepper and mozzarella gratin
- Peppers stuffed with quinoa and vegetables
These delicious and nutritious dishes will delight the taste buds of adults and children!
Tips for Choosing and Storing Peppers
To take full advantage of all these benefits, it is important to choose very fresh peppers. Favor those who have smooth, shiny skin and are firm to the touch. At home, store them in the refrigerator in the vegetable drawer, they will retain all their nutrients for a week.
Final thoughts
Pepper: a food not to be neglected
In short, peppers are a vegetable full of vitamins, minerals and fiber. It helps strengthen our immune system, protects our cells, regulates blood pressure, stimulates metabolism, and is a great slimming ally. What are you waiting for to incorporate it more often into your meals? Enjoy your food !
