Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

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Scarpaccia might not be the most famous Italian dish outside of Tuscany, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. This savory, rustic pancake-like pie is traditionally made with zucchini, but today we’re giving it a vibrant autumn twist with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions. It’s golden at the edges, tender in the center, and packed with natural sweetness from the vegetables.

It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need a special occasion. It comes together with pantry staples, making it a weeknight hero or the star of a relaxed brunch spread. Enjoy it warm, at room temp, or even cold – it’s versatile, simple, and completely satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

This version of scarpaccia is a wonderful mix of comfort and garden-fresh simplicity. It captures that Italian knack for transforming humble ingredients into something deeply flavorful. The sweetness of the bell peppers balances perfectly with the richness of olive oil and the savory hit of parmesan or pecorino.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian, great for making ahead, and can be cut into squares for picnics or lunchboxes. If you like dishes that taste even better the next day, this one’s for you.

What Kind of Bell Peppers Should I Use?

Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are ideal here. They’re sweet, mild, and roast beautifully. You can use a mix for a more colorful presentation, or go with whichever you have on hand. Green bell peppers are more bitter, so if you use them, consider adding a bit of sugar or extra sweet onion to balance things out.

Roasting or lightly sautéing the peppers before mixing them into the batter helps draw out their natural sugars and gives that irresistible charred flavor that makes each bite pop.

Ingredients for the Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

What makes this scarpaccia recipe so satisfying is how minimal yet impactful each ingredient is. Each one plays an important role in the balance of flavor and texture:

• Bell Peppers
• Yellow Onion
• All-Purpose Flour
• Cornmeal (or fine polenta)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Olive Oil
• Parmesan Cheese
• Fresh Thyme (or rosemary)
• Salt & Pepper
• Baking Powder

How To Make the Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Thinly slice the bell peppers and onion. In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and sauté the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. Let them cool a bit before adding them to the batter.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk and olive oil. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in the grated parmesan and fresh thyme.

Step 3: Combine and Pour

Fold the cooled vegetables into the batter and mix until just combined. The batter will be quite thick, almost like cornbread consistency.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. Pour the batter in and smooth the top. Drizzle with a touch more olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown at the edges and set in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the scarpaccia rest for 10 minutes before slicing into squares or wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

This recipe feeds around 6 people as a side dish or 4 as a light main course. It’s perfect for lunch with a fresh salad or packed into a picnic basket. If you’re serving it as part of a bigger meal, it also makes a lovely starter.

To store leftovers, wrap them tightly and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully in a toaster oven or skillet. You can also freeze slices for quick weekday lunches – just thaw and warm before serving.

What to Serve With Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia?

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

A protein-rich bowl filled with fresh herbs and veggies is a perfect light pairing.

Classic Caprese Salad

The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella balances the rustic charm of the scarpaccia.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Creamy and comforting, this pasta makes a satisfying partner for your savory bake.

Roasted Asparagus

A crisp, seasonal side that doesn’t overshadow the flavors of the main.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

For a heartier meal, pair it with savory steak bites and a drizzle of sauce.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Hearty and flavorful, a bowl of this soup alongside your scarpaccia is cozy perfection.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Use it to scoop or sandwich slices of scarpaccia for a fun spin.

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Zingy and bold, they bring brightness and contrast to the sweet and savory pie.

Want More Savory Bakes and Italian-Inspired Ideas?

If this Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia won your heart, here are more you should try next:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for something rich and veggie-packed.
• Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl when you need a fresh protein-packed meal.
• Roasted Asparagus for another simple veggie side with bold flavor.
• Classic Caprese Salad to keep things light, crisp, and classically Italian.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you love one-pan comfort.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest savory board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how you made it your own. Did you go extra cheesy? Toss in some chili flakes? Maybe added a few olives? I love seeing the different ways people bring new life to these rustic Italian recipes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes and comfort food favorites on Janet Dishes on Pinterest: Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia brings together the soul of Italian home cooking with a colorful, modern twist. It’s a dish that speaks to the beauty of vegetables and the simplicity of good ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, lunch, or dinner, it never fails to impress – not because it’s fancy, but because it feels like home.

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