Charred Peppers with Stracciatella and Pesto
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both elegant and easy to make? These charred sweet peppers with creamy stracciatella and herbaceous pesto are bursting with bold flavor and stunning color. Whether you’re serving guests or just elevating your weeknight dinner, this dish adds a gourmet touch without a lot of effort. The combo of smoky peppers, rich cheese, and zippy pesto is unbeatable.
Before you get started
Make sure your peppers are fresh and vibrant, and grab either stracciatella or burrata depending on what’s available at your store. You’ll want a hot grill or skillet ready for that beautiful char. This dish is best served warm or at room temperature, making it great for prepping slightly ahead of time.
What You Need To Make Charred Peppers with Stracciatella and Pesto
You’ll find everything you need listed in the recipe card below. You’ll be using sweet peppers in multiple colors, creamy stracciatella cheese, vibrant pesto, and finishing touches like olive oil and balsamic glaze. Salt and pepper bring it all together.
How To Make Charred Peppers with Stracciatella and Pesto
Slice your sweet peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs.
To char the peppers, use one of the following methods:
Grill method: Heat your grill to high. Lay the peppers skin-side down. Turn every few minutes until blistered and blackened all over, about 10 to 12 minutes.
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Stovetop method: Heat a comal or cast iron skillet over medium-high. Place the peppers directly on the hot surface and use tongs to rotate every few minutes. You want those nice char marks on all sides.
Once charred, arrange the peppers on a serving plate. Spoon stracciatella or torn burrata on top of each.
Drizzle with pesto, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle salt and pepper to finish.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy every bite.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use burrata instead of stracciatella?
Yes. If you can’t find stracciatella, burrata works beautifully. Just tear it apart and place the creamy center on the peppers.
Do I need a grill to make this?
Not at all. A hot cast iron pan or comal on the stovetop will give you the same delicious charred effect.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can char the peppers and store them in the fridge, then assemble the dish right before serving. Add cheese and toppings just before eating for best texture and flavor.
Charred Peppers with Stracciatella and Pesto
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Slice the peppers in half lengthwise (from top to bottom).
- Remove some of the ribs and seeds.
- Char the Peppers
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Place the peppers directly on the grill grates.
- Turn the peppers every 2-3 minutes, allowing each side to blacken and blister.
- Total grilling time is typically 10-12 minutes until the peppers are evenly charred.
- Place the peppers directly on a comal or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Use tongs to turn the peppers every 2-3 minutes.
- Char until the skin is blistered and blackened, usually taking about 10-12 minutes in total.
- Top the charred peppers with stracciatella or burrata.
- Drizzle with pesto, balsamic glaze, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
