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Pimento peppers are most familiar as the stuffing for green olives. Sometimes available fresh, much of the crop is pickled
and jarred or dried and made into paprika.
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Also known as pimiento or cherry pepper, this variety of mild
chile
pepper is fleshy, aromatic and sweet. Red, heart-shaped and
large, pimentos grow to about 3 to 4 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide. They are often sold
roasted and bottled, and they are most familiar as the stuffing found in green
olives. Much of the pimento crop is also dried and used to
make
paprika.
Varieties and Buying Tips
Fresh pimentos may be found at specialty produce markets and some
supermarkets from late summer to early fall. Pimentos are best when
mature and deep scarlet red in color. They should be smooth,
shiny and firm.
Canned and bottled pimentos (preserved in
oil) are available at
supermarkets year-round. Usually found in the condiment aisle, they are
sold in halves, strips or pieces.
Storage Tips
Place fresh pimentos in a plastic
bag and refrigerate for up to two weeks. For canned or bottle
pimentos, follow the label instructions. Some may recommend that you
cover the peppers with a little water and
vinegar and refrigerate after
opening.
Usage Tips
• Eat pimentos fresh off the plant—delicious!
• Stuff with cheese and serve as an
appetizer.
• Chop and add to
pasta,
potato and green salads for bright color and flavor.
• Add to sandwiches made with Italian salamis and cheeses.
Try one of our favorite pimento recipes:
Texas Caviar
Asparagus and Chicken Casserole
Dunkley's Famous Macaroni Salad