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Home » Recipes » Vegetarian

Italian Pepper Stew

Published: Aug 9, 2022 · Modified: Jul 2, 2023 by Debra Clark · 24 Comments

Jump to Recipe Pin Recipe

Pepper Stew is on the menu today and it is fabulous! Simmering the stew on the stove makes the potatoes soft and tender. The peppers and tomatoes become sweet and juicy! The bit of red pepper flakes gives this pepper soup recipe just a hint of heat - the perfect combination of flavors!

Next time try Stuffed Pepper Casserole!

Pepper Stew for Meatless Monday!
Jump to:
  • ❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  
  • Ingredients
  • Instructions
  • 🙋‍♀️ FAQ's
  • Variations
  • Serving suggestions
  • Related recipes
  • Pepper Stew Recipe

❤️ Why you'll love this recipe  

There is something magical that happens to peppers when they are slowly cooked. They become sweet, savory and sooo yummy! Similar to the sweet flavor peppers get when they are grilled as a shish kabob something similar happens when they are slowly cooked on the stovetop.

Allowing the flavors to develop in this amazing Peperonata recipe as it simmers on the stove makes for the most amazingly flavorful stew!

This is such a simple dish! Peppers with starchy russet potatoes to thicken the stew, some spices and stock. It doesn't get any easier or better than this!

Red, green, orange and yellow bell peppers sitting on cutting board.
Red, yellow, orange and green bell peppers.

Ingredients

For the exact measurements to make Peperonata, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post. 

  • sweet bell peppers - medium green bell pepper, yellow peppers, orange bell peppers and red bell peppers - a whole rainbow of bell peppers!
  • russet potatoes, medium yellow onion, garlic - russet potatoes are best for this recipe to help thicken the stew.
  • tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, vegetable stock - pantry ingredients you probably have on hand!
  • salt, pepper, red pepper flakes - to flavor the soup.
  • extra virgin olive oil - to sauté the vegetables
  • parsley - an optional ingredient, but the addition helps bright the flavor of the soup!

Instructions

A collage showing the stages of cooking the pepper soup recipe
Cooking the stew - first add the peppers, then the potatoes & season well. Next add the broth, fire roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce.

This is an overview of the instructions. For the complete directions just scroll down to the bottom!

  1. It's very simple too you'll start by chopping the onions, dicing the peppers, peel and dice the potatoes, mince the garlic.
  2. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil then the peppers and potatoes, season well.
  3. Next add the broth, fire roasted tomatoes and tomato sauce. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  4. Allow to simmer uncovered until the potatoes are tender. Season peperonata with a pinch of salt.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ's

Can I use different peppers?

Yes! The variety of peppers green, yellow, red and orange offer the perfect combination of flavors. If you choose all green peppers, the stew will be bitter, all red peppers will make it super sweet.

What is the best potato to use for pepper stew?

Russet potatoes are the best choice for this soup. They are super starchy and thicken the soup nicely!

Can it be made ahead?

Yes, this can be made ahead and like many soups that are slowly simmered it tastes even better on day two!

How long does this soup last?

Potatoes and Pepper Stew will last up to three days in the refrigerator.

Does this Pepper Soup Recipe freeze well?

I don't recommend freezing this soup. Potatoes don't freeze well and become mealy when they are thawed. It's best to eat this soup when it's fresh.

Variations

Tomato paste will intensify the flavors of the stew. You can replace the canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes as well.

Use any combination of sweet summer bell peppers the colorful peppers make for such a lovely stew!

A splash of white vinegar brightens the flavor just before serving.

Serving suggestions

All you need to complete the meal is some crusty Italian bread to help sop up the amazing broth!

When it's done, your home will have the most wonderful aroma - you won't even have to call the kids for dinner because they will be ready to eat!

Bonus? Pepper and Potato Stew is also vegan shhhh...... just don't tell anyone! Trust me, they won't even realize it! or miss the meat!

  • This recipe for an (almost!) no-knead bread is amazing. It's crusty and delicious and would be a great choice to pair with this meal!
  • Soft and tender dinner rolls are perfect also!
  • Skillet Cornbread - YUM!! Easy to make, simple flavors - I challenge you to have just one slice!!

Related recipes

Here are more healthy dinners! If you like this stew you may also enjoy this recipe for Vegetable Orzo Soup! It's easy to make and comes together in a snap.

And be sure to try this simple carrot soup recipe - so cozy and delicious! Here are more cozy soups and stews!

  • Asparagus Soup - this vegetarian soup is quick and easy to make and really delicious!
  • Roasted Tomato Vegetable Soup - the roasted tomato intensifies the flavor. This soup is incredibly savory and creamy.
  • Easy to make this Potato Soup Recipe is thick and hearty and only takes 30 minutes to make!
  • Tomato Bisque - creamy, rich and so good, this simple soup is everyones favorite!
  • Beef Stew - so hearty and delicious, this is pure comfort food.
  • Roasted Cauliflower Soup - rich and velvety, this guilt free soup is a quick 30 minute meal.

You'll definitely want to try the Old Fashioned Stuffed Peppers Recipe!

Soup in white bowl with spoon.
Red Pepper Stew

This stew is hearty, delicious and nearly fat free. If you're watching your waistline or counting calories, you'll definitely want to add Pepper Stew to your menu.

This Pepper Soup Recipe is unassuming and you might even think it sounds little boring, but that's not the case! It is SO GOOD! Promise me you'll try it ok?

Don't forget to check out my Amazon storefront for some of my favorite products! 🛍️

If you love this recipe please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! 

Pepper Soup in aluminum stock pot with ladle of soup.
5 from 8 votes

Pepper Stew Recipe

This thick and hearty Peperonata stew is simple and delicious You'll love this easy recipe!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe SaveSaved!
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Prep Time20 minutes mins
Cook Time1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Total Time1 hour hr 35 minutes mins
Course: Soups and Stews
Cuisine: Vegan and Vegetarian
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 152kcal
Author: Deb Clark
Cost: $10

Ingredients

  • 2 green peppers
  • 1 yellow pepper
  • 1 red pepper
  • 1 orange pepper
  • 2 cups russet potatoes about 4 cubed
  • ½ red onion finely chopped
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 14.5 ounce can stewed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley optional for garnish

Instructions

  • In a dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the onion & saute for 4-5 minutes until it just begins to brown. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Saute until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  • Add all of peppers, potatoes, salt and pepper and saute for 10 minutes until the peppers really begin to soften.
  • Add in the rest of the ingredients: tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, reduce to a low simmer. Continue simmering, uncovered on the stove for one hour.
  • Give the stew a good stir every ten to fifteen minutes to keep it from sticking on the bottom and to release the starches in the potatoes.
  • If desired sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving. Serve with crusty bread for an easy, flavorful meal!

Notes

This soup can be made ahead and will keep in the refrigerator up to three days. I do not recommend freezing this soup - it should be enjoyed when it's fresh!

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    Nutrition

    Calories: 152kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1252mg | Potassium: 571mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 2110IU | Vitamin C: 127.9mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1.4mg

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    About Debra Clark

    Hey I'm Deb Clark, and I'm the owner of Bowl Me Over! We live in the sleepy little town of Scappoose, Oregon. And I admit it... I love food! Join me in this foodie journey (even if you've never cooked before!) I will help you learn to be confident in the kitchen! Want to learn more? Let's stay connected, you can email me at debra@bowl-me-over.com and find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

    Comments

      5 from 8 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. BA says

      September 19, 2024 at 11:08 pm

      5 stars
      This is delicious - I mean, all-caps DELICIOUS. There is a subtle heat and a sweetness while still being rich and also not heavy, and it's smooth. I had a bunch of sweet/bell peppers from the garden and wanted to use a lot of them. This was the recipe, and it is a delight. I don't normally rate recipes, but this one doesn't have enough star ratings, and you (and everyone you know) should be making this.

      Reply
      • Debra Clark says

        September 22, 2024 at 1:52 pm

        Thank you for coming back and taking the time to rate the recipe. I always think that every time I make this stew! Thanks for sharing!

        Reply
    2. Angela @marathonsandmotivation.com says

      February 26, 2017 at 7:08 am

      Yum! Im going to make this tomorrow 🙂

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        February 27, 2017 at 4:37 pm

        Enjoy Angela! Please swing back and let me know what you think. Have a great week!

        Reply
    3. Belgian Foodie says

      December 18, 2016 at 5:37 pm

      Hi, I love this recipe for vegetarian Pepper Stew. It would make a wonderful one-pot meal for the family this winter! Hearty soups rule in cold weather!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 20, 2016 at 11:09 am

        I so agree - soup is good food!!

        Reply
    4. Sabrina | The Tomato Tart says

      December 15, 2016 at 4:50 am

      Nice!!! Definitely going to try this. I can only imagine the great smell from cooking this stew. Yum!!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 15, 2016 at 5:23 am

        So true Sabrina! The last time I made a pot of this stew my hubby came home from worked, opened the door and he said WOW, it smells great in here!!

        Reply
    5. Sharon says

      December 15, 2016 at 3:00 am

      Yummm! I never thought a meatless stew would look so hearty and comforting. Mmmm. It's getting soo cold so I am making tons of soup. Definitely adding this one to the list!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 15, 2016 at 5:25 am

        This one is just amazing and you nailed it - comforting and hearty. After you give it a try swing back and let me know what you think - thanks Sharon!!

        Reply
    6. Helen @ Fuss Free Flavours says

      December 15, 2016 at 2:37 am

      5 stars
      A lovely warming winter supper dish. Vegetable stews are such a good dish to make in advance, easy to heat up and great with fresh crusty bread.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 15, 2016 at 5:25 am

        Absolutely! Just a perfect stew for a cold evening. Have a great day Helen!

        Reply
    7. Igor @ Cooking The Globe says

      December 14, 2016 at 11:44 pm

      5 stars
      This pepper stew looks so good. I might throw in some chicken when nobody sees, but the vegetarian version sounds great too!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 15, 2016 at 5:27 am

        A bit of chicken would taste just great Igor! Both version would be just delicious!

        Reply
    8. Holly says

      December 14, 2016 at 9:47 pm

      Mmm this looks so healthy and delicious! Wish I had a big bowl (or two) right now!

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 15, 2016 at 5:28 am

        One order coming up Holly! 😀 This stew is perfect for a cold winters day!!

        Reply
    9. Healing Tomato says

      December 12, 2016 at 3:06 pm

      5 stars
      I have a huge love for red peppers. So many of my recipes will include it. They are so versatile, aren't they? Your recipe looks delicious as does that orzo soup recipe.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 14, 2016 at 4:03 pm

        I so agree Rini, red peppers add so much flavor!! It's like eating the rainbow.

        Reply
    10. Liza says

      December 12, 2016 at 2:17 pm

      5 stars
      Wow, Debra,
      This looks delicious! And with your step-by-step instructions sounds SO EASY to make! 🙂

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 14, 2016 at 4:04 pm

        I hope you give it a try Liza - it's so yummy, light & healthy!

        Reply
    11. Lois says

      December 12, 2016 at 12:22 pm

      This does sound so good will be making it soon.

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        December 14, 2016 at 4:04 pm

        Great Lois - please pop back by and let me know what you think!!

        Reply
    12. Stephanie Stuart says

      May 09, 2014 at 3:47 pm

      I love peppers! The varied colors and flavors are just wonderful! Colorful food is absolutely my favorite and I'm a huge soup fan! Will be making! YUM

      Reply
      • Bowl Me Over says

        May 09, 2014 at 7:48 pm

        Great Stephanie - give it a try, I think you'll love it!

        Reply
    Blogger Deb Clark smiling at camera holding a plate filled with a casserole.
    Welcome to Bowl Me Over!

    Hey I'm Deb Clark! I'm the owner of Bowl Me Over. We live in a sleepy little town just north of Portland in the beautiful Pacific Northwest... (read more)

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