Colorful Pepper Cups with Fresh Vegetables

This vibrant recipe is perfect for adding a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your meal. Featuring an assortment of fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, and romaine lettuce, all packed into colorful pepper cups, it’s an ideal dish for both presentation and nutrition. The garlic yogurt or sour cream dip enhances the taste with a creamy and tangy twist, making it a delightful appetizer or snack. With just a little preparation, this dish becomes a creative way to enjoy vegetables. The crunchy texture of the peppers, combined with the juicy cucumber and crisp lettuce, adds a refreshing bite. Children and adults alike will be charmed by the whimsical faces carved into the peppers, making it a fun addition to any gathering. Moreover, the flexibility of this recipe allows for easy modification to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re catering to health enthusiasts or looking to entertain creatively, these colorful pepper cups are a fantastic choice. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring some excitement to your table!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 10 small carrots
• 3 peppers of different colors
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 long cucumber
• A few romaine lettuce leaves
• 200 ml plain yogurt or sour cream

Spices & Sauces

• 2 cloves of garlic
• Salt
• Chili flakes or dill

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under running water.
2. Cut the tops off the three peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
3. Using a waterproof marker, draw fun facial features on the outside of the peppers.
4. Carefully cut out the eyes and mouth with a small, sharp knife to create a face on each pepper.
5. Next, peel the carrots and cut them into thin sticks suitable for dipping.
6. Slice the cucumber into similar-sized sticks, ensuring they fit inside the pepper cups.
7. Cut the celery stalks into manageable, snack-sized pieces.
8. Layer a few romaine lettuce leaves inside each pepper; this forms the bed for the rest of the ingredients.
9. Fill the pepper cups with an even mixture of carrot, cucumber, and celery sticks.
10. To make the dip, mince the garlic cloves finely and mix them with the yogurt or sour cream in a bowl.
11. Add in a pinch of salt to the bowl and stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
12. If desired, add chili flakes or chopped dill to the dip for extra flavor and color.
13. Taste the dip and adjust seasoning according to preference.
14. Pour the dip into small serving bowls, one for each pepper cup or communal as preferred.
15. Place the pepper cups on a serving tray alongside the dip to encourage sharing and communal enjoyment.
16. For visual appeal, arrange the components so each item stands out distinctly.
17. If preparing ahead, keep the filled pepper cups and dip chilled until ready to serve.
18. Enjoy the dish as a fresh appetizer or healthy snack for any occasion.
19. Cleanup is a breeze as the pepper cups serve as reusable serving vessels.

Tips

• Choose peppers with a flat base so they stand upright when served.
• For a vegan option, use a plant-based yogurt alternative.
• Add your favorite herbs to the dip such as parsley or chives for extra flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 100 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 2g
• Carbs: 18g

Variations

• Add other fresh vegetables like radishes or bell peppers for varied crunch.
• Sprinkle with feta cheese for an added creamy texture.
• Use spiced sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal.
• Pair with whole grain crackers or pita bread for additional texture.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Best Places

• The Salad Room - Known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant presentations. Location: 123 Green Street, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Veggie Delight - Offers a wide variety of healthy and colorful dishes. Location: 456 Plant Avenue, San Francisco, USA.
• Herb Haven - Specializes in domestically-sourced, seasonal vegetables. Location: 789 Garden Road, London, UK.
• Fresh Bites - Renowned for its innovative salads and dips. Location: 321 Organic Lane, Sydney, Australia.
• Green Taste - A fusion of eastern and western vegetable dishes. Location: 555 Leaf Street, Berlin, Germany.
• Vital Bowls - Offers eclectic veggie-based bowls. Location: 678 Vegan Way, New York, USA.
• The Rooted Café - Celebrates local produce in creative ways. Location: 111 Sprout Alley, Toronto, Canada.
• Leaf & Bean - A delightful spot for fresh, healthy meals. Location: 222 Seed Crescent, Dublin, Ireland.
• Earth’s Palette - Provides a colorful array of salads. Location: 333 Flora Square, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Garden Gourmet - Known for its extensive range of vegetable snacks. Location: 444 Fresh Lane, Tokyo, Japan.