Description
Italian Bell Pepper and Onion Scarpaccia is a savory, thin, crisp-edged tart-like recipe made with a simple batter of flour, cornmeal, and thyme, layered generously with sweet onions and colorful bell peppers. Baked until golden and aromatic, this rustic Italian dish is perfect as a side, snack, or appetizer.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
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- 1 1/3 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons cornmeal, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, to taste
Vegetables
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- 5 small or 2 large red onions, cut into thin strips
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into thin strips
Liquids
- 3/4 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Line a large baking pan with parchment paper, and sprinkle it lightly with extra cornmeal. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and dried thyme. Add kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate the thinly sliced red onions and bell peppers into the dry mixture, tossing them until they are well coated.
- Form the Batter: Gradually pour in the water, mixing continuously until you achieve a thick, cohesive batter that evenly holds all the vegetables.
- Spread the Batter: Transfer the mixture onto the prepared pan. Spread and gently pat the batter into a thin, uniform layer, making sure it’s even throughout.
- Finish the Top: Drizzle the top of the batter generously with olive oil. Sprinkle with additional salt and a light dusting of cornmeal for added texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and the edges look crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes. Slice into pieces and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- The thickness of the batter layer will affect the crispiness—spread thin for crisper edges.
- Use a mix of colored bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- Scarpaccia is best enjoyed the same day but can be reheated in the oven for added crunch.
- Customize the seasonings by adding fresh herbs like rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
