Crispy Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia Recipe to Savor

Crispy and rustic, this Italian bell pepper and onion scarpaccia promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Generations of Italian cooks have perfected this simple yet flavorful dish.

Humble ingredients come together in a magical combination that surprises and delights.

Regional traditions shine through every golden, crisp bite of this versatile recipe.

Layers of sweet peppers and caramelized onions create a symphony of textures and flavors.

Fresh herbs and olive oil elevate the scarpaccia from ordinary to extraordinary.

Each slice tells a story of comfort and passion from the Italian countryside.

You will want to savor every moment of preparing and enjoying this delectable creation.

Bell Pepper Onion Scarpaccia Rustic Styles

• Gluten-Free Scarpaccia: Replace plain flour with almond flour or gluten-free rice flour to create a celiac-friendly version that maintains the crispy texture.
• Vegan Mediterranean Variation: Substitute water with plant-based milk and add nutritional yeast for extra flavor, enhancing the traditional recipe with dairy-free ingredients.
• Spicy Herb Blend: Incorporate chili flakes, fresh rosemary, and thyme to transform the basic scarpaccia into a zesty, aromatic street food-inspired dish.
• Low-Carb Vegetable Version: Use cauliflower flour instead of cornmeal and reduce overall flour content, creating a lighter, vegetable-forward alternative for health-conscious eaters.

FAQs

• What are the main ingredients in this scarpaccia?

The main ingredients are red onions, bell peppers, plain flour, cornmeal, dry herbs, salt, pepper, water, and extra virgin olive oil.

• Is this dish considered vegetarian?

Yes, this scarpaccia is completely vegetarian and can be enjoyed by those following a vegetarian diet.

• What kind of cuisine does scarpaccia belong to?

Scarpaccia is a traditional Italian rustic dish, originating from the Tuscany region of Italy, specifically known for its simple and hearty preparation.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace the plain flour with a gluten-free flour alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Bell Pepper Scarpaccia That Adds Italian Flavor to Any Meal

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up this Italian scarpaccia in just a few simple steps, requiring minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
• Versatile Serving Option: Enjoy this crispy vegetable flatbread as a delightful appetizer, light lunch, or accompaniment to salads and soups, perfect for any mealtime.
• Healthy Veggie Delight: Packed with nutritious bell peppers and onions, this recipe offers a low-calorie, vegetarian-friendly dish that's bursting with Mediterranean flavors and wholesome goodness.
• Budget-Friendly Comfort Food: Create a satisfying meal using affordable ingredients, transforming simple vegetables into a delicious, crispy flatbread that feeds multiple people without breaking the bank.

What Gives Scarpaccia Its Savory Italian Taste

• Red Onions, Bell Peppers: Sweet and colorful base of the dish, adding natural flavor and texture. Choose fresh, crisp vegetables with vibrant colors.

• Plain Flour, Cornmeal: Creates structure and provides a crispy, rustic texture. Opt for fine-ground cornmeal for smoother consistency.

• Salt, Black Pepper, Dry Herbs: Enhances overall flavor profile and adds depth to the scarpaccia. Select fresh, fragrant dried herbs like oregano or thyme.

• Water, Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps bind ingredients and adds moisture and richness. Choose high-quality, cold-pressed olive oil for best flavor.

Bell Pepper Scarpaccia Italian Prep

Step 1: Ignite the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 200°C (392°F) with the fan swirling inside.

Step 2: Prepare Vibrant Vegetables

Slice red onions into delicate, paper-thin rings and chop bell peppers into slender, elegant strips.

Step 3: Create the Magical Mixture

• Sliced onions
• Bell pepper strips
• Dried herbs
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Plain flour
• Cornmeal

Blend everything together with a gentle touch.

Slowly introduce water, maintaining a thick, luscious consistency.

Step 4: Spread the Canvas

Drape a baking tray with oil-kissed parchment paper.

Tenderly spread the mixture across the surface, pressing it into a uniform, whisper-thin layer.

Step 5: Enhance with Liquid Gold

Cascade extra virgin olive oil over the top, then sprinkle an extra dusting of cornmeal and a pinch of salt.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into the oven’s warm embrace.

Bake for 50-60 minutes until the surface transforms into a golden, crispy masterpiece.

For an extra crunch, nudge the tray to the bottom rack during the final 10 minutes.

Step 7: Rest and Reveal

Allow the scarpaccia to cool and settle for 15 minutes.

Slice and serve, either warmly inviting or relaxed at room temperature.

Savory Baking Tips for Scarpaccia Bell Peppers

• Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create uniform, paper-thin vegetable cuts for even cooking and crispy texture.
• Check the scarpaccia at 45 minutes to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary between kitchen appliances.
• Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to enhance the traditional Italian flavor profile.
• Replace plain flour with gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Broil the scarpaccia for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to achieve an extra golden and crunchy top layer.

Bell Pepper Onion Scarpaccia Storage

• Store leftover scarpaccia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the container sealed to prevent moisture and preserve texture.
• Warm slices at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Spread pieces on a baking sheet to maintain even heating and prevent sogginess.
• Quick reheat individual slices for 30-45 seconds, but expect a softer texture compared to oven reheating. Place a paper towel underneath to absorb excess moisture.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Can be stored frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Savory Matches for Bell Pepper Scarpaccia

• Pair with Rustic Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese, which complements the sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions with their earthy undertones.
• Match with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the scarpaccia and provide a bright, crisp contrast to the baked dish.
• Serve with Crisp White Appetizer: Prepare bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, offering a zesty starter that echoes the vegetable flavors in the scarpaccia.
• Enhance with Crisp Tuscan White Wine: Select a Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a clean and mineral-driven white that refreshes the palate and balances the savory vegetable flavors.

Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia Recipe

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4.5 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Rustic Italian bell pepper and onion scarpaccia brings countryside charm to your kitchen, celebrating simple ingredients with bold Mediterranean flavors. Crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs dance together, inviting you to savor each authentic, hearty bite of this traditional Tuscan delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 2 medium bell peppers (approximately 860 g), cut into small strips
• 5 small red onions, thinly sliced
• 220 g (7.75 ounces) plain flour
• 55 g (1.94 ounces) cornmeal (coarse type)

Liquid Ingredients:

• 190 g (6.7 fluid ounces) water
• Extra virgin olive oil, for mixing and drizzling

Seasoning:

• Dry rosemary, to taste
• Dry thyme, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the culinary workspace by positioning the oven rack at 200°C (392°F) with convection mode activated.
2. Carefully slice red onions into delicate, translucent ribbons and transform bell peppers into slender, uniform strips.
3. Create a harmonious blend by incorporating sliced onions, bell pepper strips, aromatic dry herbs, seasoning, plain flour, and cornmeal within a spacious mixing vessel. Integrate ingredients thoroughly while gradually introducing water to maintain a robust, cohesive consistency.
4. Prepare a baking surface by layering with lightly oiled parchment paper, then meticulously distribute the vegetable mixture across the tray. Apply gentle pressure to ensure an even, wafer-thin profile.
5. Enhance the composition by elegantly drizzling extra virgin olive oil across the surface, then generously dust with additional cornmeal and a delicate sprinkle of salt.
6. Transfer the tray into the preheated oven, allowing the scarpaccia to transform for 50-60 minutes. Monitor the surface until it achieves a golden, crisp texture. For maximum crunchiness, relocate the tray to the lower rack during the final cooking interval.
7. After removing from the oven, permit the scarpaccia to rest and settle for approximately 15 minutes. Slice and present either warmly or at ambient temperature, celebrating the rustic Italian culinary tradition.

Notes

• Slice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Adjust cornmeal and flour ratio for crispier or softer results based on personal preference.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Use parchment paper generously to prevent sticking and achieve a perfectly crisp bottom layer.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg