Purple Bell Pepper Recipes: 15 Creative Ways to Use Them

Kayla Jul 28, 2026

Adding a vibrant pop of color to many dishes, purple bell peppers are a welcome addition to any meal. They're not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients and antioxidants. But what are some of the best ways to use these captivating peppers? Let's dive in.

All About Purple Peppers
All About Purple Peppers

First, let's clear up a common misconception. Despite their vibrant hue, purple bell peppers are not hot like their spicy counterparts. They're sweet and versatile, making them an excellent choice for a vast range of recipes.

How To Grow Purple Bell Peppers
How To Grow Purple Bell Peppers

Purple Bell Peppers in Everyday Cooking

Purple bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants like lutein and lycopene. Incorporating them into your daily meals can boost your health benefits significantly.

Purple Bell Peppers
Purple Bell Peppers

But how can you use purple bell peppers in your everyday cooking? Here are a couple of ways:

Stir-Fries and Curry Dishes

Purple Bell Peppers Explained: Why They’re Purple + Growing & Health Benefits | non gmo seeds 864.99.3.45
Purple Bell Peppers Explained: Why They’re Purple + Growing & Health Benefits | non gmo seeds 864.99.3.45

These vibrant peppers add a beautiful touch to any stir-fry or curry dish. Slice them into strips and toss them with other colorful veggies, your protein of choice, and your favorite sauce. They're quick to cook and make a delicious side or main dish.

For something different, try making a Thai-inspired purple bell pepper curry. With coconut milk, lemongrass, and fragrant spices, it's a dish that's as delicious as it is visually striking.

Snacks and Appetizers

10 Best Purple Bell Pepper Recipes for Healthy Meals
10 Best Purple Bell Pepper Recipes for Healthy Meals

Tagged as the 'Mediterranean version of a corn dog' by some food blogs, purple bell pepper fries are a healthier alternative to traditional French fries. They're crispy, delicious, and a hit with kids and adults alike.

For a lower-calorie snack, try some purple bell pepper strips with your favorite dip. They're low in calories and high in flavor, making them an excellent choice for snacking guilt-free.

Purple Bell Peppers in Dishes from Around the World

Purple Peppers Guide: Heat, Flavor, Uses
Purple Peppers Guide: Heat, Flavor, Uses

Purple bell peppers are not just a beautiful garnish. They're used in various traditional recipes worldwide, adding unique flavors and textures.

Here are a couple of international dishes that feature purple bell peppers:

Sweet Pepper Seeds 'purple beautique', rare Sweet Bell Heirloom Vegetable
Sweet Pepper Seeds 'purple beautique', rare Sweet Bell Heirloom Vegetable
Ingredients:

4 small or 2 large bell peppers (I used purple), cut into strips
3ish shallots or 1 small red onion, sliced
4 x 6 ounce salmon filets, sprinkled with salt
1 x 14 ounce can of coconut milk 
~2 tbsp curry paste
Handful of herbs - basil, cilantro, etc

Sear the salmon on both sides, drain the pan, then sauté the pepper

Stir in 1 x 14 oz can of coco milk and juice of a lime. Jazz up w. a pinch of coconut/brown sugar or fish sauce. 
 
Serve the salmon in the curry and finish with su... Homemade Bell Pepper Recipe, Purple Bell Pepper Recipe, Purple Bell Peppers Fresh, Purple Bell Peppers, Purple Bell Pepper, Stuffed Bell Peppers Videos, Salmon Filet, Curry Paste, Shallots
Ingredients: 
4 small or 2 large bell peppers (I used purple), cut into strips 3ish shallots or 1 small red onion, sliced
4 x 6 ounce salmon filets, sprinkled with salt
1 x 14 ounce can of coconut milk ~2 tbsp curry paste Handful of herbs - basil, cilantro, etc 
Sear the salmon on both sides, drain the pan, then sauté the pepper Stir in 1 x 14 oz can of coco milk and juice of a lime. Jazz up w. a pinch of coconut/brown sugar or fish sauce. Serve the salmon in the curry and finish with su... Homemade Bell Pepper Recipe, Purple Bell Pepper Recipe, Purple Bell Peppers Fresh, Purple Bell Peppers, Purple Bell Pepper, Stuffed Bell Peppers Videos, Salmon Filet, Curry Paste, Shallots
Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers
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Capsicum Cheese Paratha
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Our 25 Best Bell Pepper Recipes to Make
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Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe 🌶️
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Paneer and Bell Pepper Sabzi with Toasted Spices and Fresh Coriander

Purple Pepper and Feta Stuffed Chicken

Popular in Mediterranean cuisine, stuffed chicken dishes are a great way to add extra flavor and nutrition. Mix chopped purple bell peppers with feta cheese, fresh herbs, and seasonings, then stuff it into chicken breasts before grilling. The result is a delicious, flavorful dish that's also nutritious.

For a vegetarian alternative, try stuffing the purple pepper and feta mixture into portobello mushrooms. They're just as tasty and hearty, and perfect for meatless Mondays.

Vietnamese Purple Pepper Salt and Pepper Crab

If you're a seafood lover, you'll adore this Vietnamese dish. The purple bell peppers are lightly pickled, giving a delightful tang that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory flavors of the crab.

For a more Western twist, you can also use purple bell peppers in a classic American crab cake recipe. The vibrant color and mild, slightly sweet flavor balance well with the crabmeat and seasonings.

So go ahead, experiment with these beautiful peppers. They're not just a pretty face; they're versatile, nutritious, and delicious. Whether you're whipping up a quick stir-fry or exploring international flavors, purple bell peppers are sure to bring a smile to your plate – and your face.