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Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia is a rustic dish born out of simplicity but layered with intense flavors and texture. Originally from the Tuscan coast, this savory version of the classic scarpaccia is a beautiful marriage of caramelized onions, roasted bell peppers, and a tender, golden crust that brings everything together. Traditionally known for using zucchini, this twist turns seasonal peppers into the star of the show.

The contrast of sweetness from the vegetables and the savory notes of olive oil and herbs makes this a recipe you’ll crave often. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a brunch centerpiece, or a unique appetizer, this dish is as versatile as it is comforting.

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

This dish combines everything we love about Mediterranean home cooking: vibrant colors, fresh vegetables, and easy-to-follow techniques. You don’t need fancy ingredients or advanced skills, just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh vegetables. It’s naturally vegetarian, satisfying, and perfect either warm or at room temperature.

Once you make it, you’ll realize how easy it is to change up with seasonal vegetables, making it a go-to year-round.

What Kind of Bell Peppers Should I Use?

You can use any combination of bell peppers, but the magic happens when you mix red, yellow, and orange varieties. Each has a slightly different level of sweetness, which adds depth to the dish. If you only have green bell peppers, that works too, but keep in mind they have a more bitter profile, so consider balancing them with sweeter onions or even a touch of honey in the batter.

Ingredients for the Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

For a dish so packed with flavor, the ingredients list remains beautifully simple. Each one has a role to play in the final taste and texture, so try not to skip anything. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bell Peppers
• Onions
• Olive Oil
• All-Purpose Flour
• Cornmeal (fine ground)
• Baking Powder
• Salt and Pepper
• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary
• Water

Bell peppers provide sweetness and that beautiful soft bite. Onions caramelize as they cook, infusing the dish with rich, savory depth. Olive oil adds moisture and golden crispiness. The flour and cornmeal create a batter that becomes crisp on the outside and tender inside. Baking powder gives it a light lift. Salt and pepper round everything out, while herbs like thyme or rosemary add an earthy aroma.

How To Make the Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Slice your bell peppers into thin strips and onions into half-moons. Sauté both in olive oil until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. This step builds flavor and sets the foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Slowly add water and olive oil, whisking until you have a smooth, pancake-like batter.

Step 3: Combine and Rest

Fold the cooked vegetables and chopped herbs into the batter. Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flour and cornmeal to fully hydrate.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish or cast iron skillet. Spread it evenly and drizzle a little extra olive oil on top. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30–40 minutes or until the top is golden and edges crisp.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let it cool slightly before slicing. This scarpaccia is lovely warm but equally delicious at room temperature.

How to Serve and Store Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia

This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it a great dish for family-style meals or small gatherings. Serve it as a savory snack, a brunch item with eggs, or as a side to soups and salads.

To store leftovers, wrap them in foil or place in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven for 10 minutes at 350°F to regain some of that crispness, or enjoy it cold like a frittata.

What to Serve With Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia?

Aged Cheese Platter

A wedge of Parmesan or pecorino alongside this scarpaccia makes a rich, salty contrast.

Simple Green Salad

Fresh greens with lemon vinaigrette balance the savory depth of the dish beautifully.

Tomato Basil Soup

The ultimate comfort pairing, especially on cooler days.

Roasted Chicken

Pair with simple roasted chicken thighs for a well-rounded dinner.

Poached Eggs

Top slices with a soft-poached egg for a brunch-worthy plate.

Chilled White Wine

A crisp white wine or dry rosé lifts the flavors for a refreshing combo.

Herbed Ricotta Dip

Spread herbed ricotta or goat cheese over a warm slice for a creamy twist.

Want More Savory Snack Ideas?

If you love this Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia, you’ll likely enjoy these other flavor-packed dishes from Luna Meals:

• Crispy and Delicious Easy Chinese Egg Rolls Recipe
• Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni
• Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or veggie board so it’s easy to find when the craving hits!

And let me know how your scarpaccia turned out. Did you use all red peppers? Did you try adding a little parmesan into the batter?

I’d love to hear your twist on this Tuscan classic. Questions welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

Explore more feel-good, veggie-packed recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and get inspired by fresh, homemade ideas!

Conclusion

Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia takes the rustic charm of Tuscan cuisine and brings it to your table in the most inviting way. It’s proof that with just a few humble ingredients, you can create something extraordinary. Try it once, and it might just become a new favorite in your seasonal cooking lineup.

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