Description
Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia is a savory, flatbread-like tart featuring thinly sliced bell peppers and red onions sautéed to perfection and baked in a flavorful Parmesan batter. This versatile dish makes a perfect side, appetizer, or light lunch, showcasing rustic Italian flavors with a crispy golden crust and tender center.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 cup water
- 1 large egg
Dry Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
- Flaky salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers and red onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and have a slight caramelization. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Make the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with the water until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until a smooth batter forms.
- Combine and fold: Gently fold the sautéed vegetables into the batter along with the chopped fresh rosemary if using, ensuring an even distribution without breaking up the vegetables.
- Transfer and season: Pour the batter with vegetables into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Drizzle lightly with olive oil over the top and sprinkle with flaky salt if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. The top should have a lightly crisp surface.
- Cool and serve: Allow the scarpaccia to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature as a tasty side dish or light meal.
Notes
- Scarpaccia is a traditional savory Italian tart made with thin vegetables, perfect as a side, appetizer, or light lunch.
- Try adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or olives to vary the flavor and texture.
- Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- If you prefer, substitute dried rosemary with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for different aroma profiles.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
