Pimento peppers, also known as cherry peppers, are a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. Though small, these peppers pack a punch of flavor that enhances everything from appetizers to main courses. If you’ve recently acquired some pimento peppers but aren’t sure how to make the most of them, read on for tips, recipe ideas, and more.
What Are Pimento Peppers?
Pimento peppers are a variety of chili pepper that is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. They are also referred to as cherry peppers due to their small, round shape which resembles a cherry tomato. While there are different varieties of pimento peppers, most are about 1-3 inches long and red, yellow, or orange in color when ripe.
These peppers are known for having a sweet and spicy flavor. On the Scoville scale, which measures the pungency or “heat” of chili peppers, pimento peppers rate between 100-500 Scoville heat units. This means they have a mild spiciness that adds more sweetness and flavor than intense heat.
Fresh pimento peppers have very thick, crisp flesh that contains few seeds. When harvested at peak ripeness and roasted over an open flame, the skins blacken and the peppers develop a smoky-sweet flavor. Jarred or canned pimento peppers are common in stores and have been fire-roasted, peeled, and packed into jars with a liquid brine.
Nutrition Facts
Pimento peppers are low in calories and full of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of the key nutrients found in a 1/2 cup serving (about 60 grams) of raw pimento peppers include:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 20 |
| Carbohydrates | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Protein | 1 gram |
| Vitamin A | 18% DV |
| Vitamin C | 150% DV |
| Vitamin K | 14% DV |
| Potassium | 210 mg |
Pimento peppers contain impressive amounts of vitamin C and A, two antioxidants that support immune health. They also provide vitamin K, potassium, and fiber. Overall, pimentos make a nutritious addition to any diet.
How to Select Pimento Peppers
You can find fresh pimento peppers in the produce section at many grocery stores. Look for ones that are firm and bright in color. Avoid peppers that are shriveled, mushy, or have blemishes.
For the juiciest peppers with the best flavor, choose those that are heavy for their size. Smaller peppers tend to be sweeter while larger ones are often more mild. Both can be used interchangeably in recipes.
You can also find pimento peppers canned or jarred. Opt for jars free of rust, bulging, or cracks. Check the best by date and look for those packed in water or brine rather than oil, which can make them mushy.
Properly stored, fresh pimento peppers will last about 1 week in the refrigerator. Canned or jarred peppers can be kept in the pantry for 1-2 years.
How to Prepare Pimento Peppers
Before using pimento peppers, you’ll need to roast them. Roasting caramelizes their natural sugars and enhances their flavor. It also makes them easier to peel and dice.
Here are two simple methods for roasting pimento peppers:
Oven Roasting
1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
2. Place whole peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The skins will blacken.
3. Transfer peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap or lid, and let steam for 10-15 minutes. This helps loosen the skins.
4. Gently peel off skins and discard.
5. Slice open peppers and remove seeds and stems. Rinse briefly under water to remove any remaining bits.
6. Use in recipes as desired.
Stovetop Roasting
1. Preheat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over high heat.
2. Place peppers directly on hot pan and roast, turning frequently with tongs, until skins are blackened and blistered on all sides – about 10 minutes total.
3. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes.
4. Gently peel skins and follow steps 4-6 above.
Once roasted and peeled, pimento peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for several months.
5 Delicious Ways to Use Pimento Peppers
Here are some of the tastiest ways to enjoy pimento peppers:
1. Pimento Cheese Spread
Blend roasted peppers into this Southern classic along with shredded cheddar, cream cheese, mayo, and spices. Spread on crackers or make into sandwiches.
2. Stuffed Pimento Peppers
Fill hollowed roasted peppers with a mixture of cream cheese, Italian herbs, and bread crumbs. Bake until golden brown.
3. Pimento Pepper Poppers
Mix chopped pimentos with cream cheese. Stuff mixture into halved jalapeños and wrap in bacon. Grill or bake until the bacon is crisp.
4. Pimento Pepper Salad
Toss roasted pimento strips with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, and balsamic vinaigrette.
5. Pimento Cheeseburgers
Top your favorite burger recipe with extra-sharp cheddar, grilled pimentos, and pimento cheese sauce.
5 Main Dishes Featuring Pimento Peppers
In addition to smaller bites and sides, pimento peppers can star in main course recipes. Here are 5 delicious mains to make:
1. Pimento Pepper Pizza
Top a prepared pizza crust with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, slices of fresh pimento peppers, pickled onions, and chopped basil.
2. Pimento Pepper Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, roasted pimento strips, and sautéed peppers and onions. Grill until cheese is melted.
3. Pimento Pepper & Shrimp Skewers
Alternate shrimp and pepper chunks on skewers. Brush with olive oil and spices. Grill 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Pimento Pepper Pasta
Sauté peppers and onions in olive oil. Toss with cooked pasta, Parmesan, fresh basil, and lemon zest.
5. Pimento Pepper Frittata
Stir roasted peppers into whisked eggs. Pour into a skillet and top with cheese. Cook until set and serve with salad.
5 Creative Ways to Use Up Leftover Pimento Peppers
Have extra roasted pimento peppers? Breathe new life into them with these unique recipes:
1. Pimento Pepper Jam
Puree peppers with sugar and lemon juice. Cook down into a sweet and tangy jam. Serve with cream cheese and crackers.
2. Pimento Pepper Jelly
Follow a recipe for grape or pepper jelly, substituting pureed pimento peppers for some of the fruit. Fill jars and gift to friends.
3. Pimento Mac and Cheese
Fold diced pimentos into macaroni and cheese along with hot sauce for a spicy twist.
4. Pimento Pepper Omelet Filling
Jazz up your morning omelet by adding roasted pimentos, feta cheese, and fresh herbs as the filling.
5. Pimento Pepper Salsa
Pulse pimentos, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and spices in a food processor. Serve with tortilla chips.
Tips for Cooking with Pimento Peppers
Follow these tips to get the most flavor and versatility out of your pimento peppers:
Adjust Spice Levels
Add other spices and peppers to increase the heat. For milder flavor, use less pimentos or balance them out with sweet ingredients.
Play with Textures
Use pimentos raw for crunch, roast or grill them for softness, or pickle for added tang.
Boost nutrition
Pair pimento peppers with vitamin C-rich fruits like citrus, leafy greens, and tomatoes to maximize antioxidant intake.
Watch the Sodium
Rinse and drain jarred or canned pimentos to decrease the salty brine. Opt for no-salt-added versions when possible.
Store Properly
Keep fresh peppers refrigerated and use within a week. Transfer roasted peppers to an airtight container.
Common Questions about Pimento Peppers
Are pimento peppers spicy?
Pimento peppers have a mild spiciness ranging from 100-500 Scoville heat units. This means they add sweet, aromatic heat rather than intense spiciness to dishes.
Can you eat pimento peppers raw?
Yes, you can eat pimento peppers raw in salads, salsa, or on their own for a spicy, crunchy snack. Most recipes call for roasting them first to deepen their flavor.
Are pimentos and pimento peppers the same thing?
Pimento refers to the stuffing found inside green olives. Pimento peppers are a variety of chili pepper. While they share a name and sweet, aromatic flavor, they are different foods.
What do pimento peppers taste like?
Pimento peppers have a sweet and mildly spicy taste. When roasted, they take on notes of raisin and smoke. Their flavor is fruity and well-balanced.
Can you substitute another pepper for pimento?
Good substitutes include red bell peppers, Anaheim peppers, pepperoncini, and banana peppers. Adjust seasoning since these won’t have the same sweet spiciness.
The Many Uses of Pimento Peppers
As you can see, pimento peppers are incredibly versatile ingredients. Their sweet spiciness enhances snacks, appetizers, salads, main dishes, and more. Always roast peppers first to maximize their signature smoky-sweet flavor.
Try using up a batch of pimento peppers in fun new ways like homemade jam or jelly. Or incorporate them into your favorite recipes like burgers, pasta, or egg dishes for extra flavor. With so many possibilities, there’s no limit to what you can do with pimento peppers!