Description
This Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia is a savory vegetable pancake that combines caramelized bell peppers and onions with a flavorful batter enriched with Parmesan cheese and herbs. Baked to golden perfection, it makes a delicious appetizer, side dish, or light meal, perfect for showcasing vibrant, seasonal vegetables with a crispy, tender crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 medium bell peppers (preferably red or yellow), thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more for greasing the pan)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, cooking them with occasional stirring until they soften and caramelize lightly, about 10-12 minutes. In the last 2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic, then season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until you achieve a smooth batter. The consistency should be slightly thick yet pourable. If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
- Assemble the Scarpaccia: Spread the caramelized bell peppers and onions evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the batter evenly over the vegetables ensuring they are fully coated.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the batter turns a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the scarpaccia from the oven and allow it to cool a few minutes. For enhanced flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice into wedges or squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use red or yellow bell peppers for sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
- Make sure the batter is neither too thick nor too thin to ensure proper baking and texture.
- You can substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative to suit dietary preferences.
- Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied aroma.
- Serve as a light lunch, antipasto, or a side dish alongside salads and grilled meats.
