Greek Pepperoncini peppers, also known as Tuscan, Golden Greek, or sweet Italian peppers, are a delightful addition to any garden. These small, mild peppers are not only delicious, but they also offer a range of rewards and benefits for gardeners.
Pepperoncini peppers are a classic in the Mediterranean diet, especially in Greece and Italy, where they’re known as ‘peperone’ and ‘friggitello’. Pepperoncini is a staple on antipasto platters, gives arrabbiata sauce its zing, and its pickled delicacy adds a sweet and sour crunch to your Greek gyro or sandwiches.
Pepperoncini peppers belong to the spicy subset of the pepper family, capsicum annuum. They’re thin skin is light green in color and they’re only 2-3” long. While they can be eaten raw, and are used in a variety of Mediterranean dishes, they’re most often served pickled.
Sweet with a Touch of Heat
When you think about different peppers, think about their level of heat. Bell peppers have a crunchy sweet taste; Jalapeno peppers are known for the mouth-zinging, fiery sensation. Then you have pepperoncini, a chili pepper that is a blend of mild heat and sweet!
Hot peppers are ranked for the heat they deliver using the Scoville scale is a unit of measurement-- Scoville Heat Unit (SHU). Bell peppers rank zero—0 SHU. The habanero, has 100,000 to 350,000 SHU. Carolina Reaper considered the hottest chili pepper-- 2.2 million SHU. 🔥
Pepperoncini peppers have 100-500 SHU. They still create a slight zing on the tongue when eaten but are milder than most other chili peppers.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here are eight reasons why you should consider growing pepperoncini peppers in your garden.
- Easy to Grow: Pepperoncini peppers are relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for beginners. They thrive in warm climates and require minimal care. With the right soil, sunlight, and watering routine, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of these tasty peppers.
- Versatile in the kitchen: Pepperoncini peppers are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pasta and pizza. Their mild heat and tangy flavor add a unique twist to any recipe, making them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
- Nutritional value: These peppers may be small, but they pack a nutritional punch. In addition to fiber and calcium, they’re rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Incorporating pepperoncini peppers into your diet can help boost your immune system and promote overall health and well-being. Capsaicin is what gives chili peppers their nutritional value-- the same part of a pepper that creates that burning sensation!
- Pickling potential: One of the most popular uses for pepperoncini peppers is pickling. Their mild heat and tangy flavor make them perfect for pickling in vinegar or brine.
- Pest deterrent: Pepperoncini peppers have natural pest-repellent properties. The capsaicin in the peppers acts as a deterrent for common garden pests, such as aphids and spider mites. By interspersing pepperoncini peppers throughout your garden, you can help protect your other plants from potential infestations.
- Compact size: Pepperoncini pepper plants are relatively compact, making them suitable for small gardens or container gardening. They can be grown in pots on a patio or balcony, allowing even those with limited space to enjoy the benefits of homegrown peppers.
- Colorful Harvests: Pepperoncini peppers have a long harvest window, which means you can enjoy fresh peppers for an extended period. As the peppers mature, they change color from green to red. Harvest the peppers at different stages of ripeness and experiment with the different flavors and heat levels.
- Community sharing: Growing pepperoncini peppers can also foster community. Much like zucchini, these peppers are so abundant! Gardeners often find themselves with more than they can use. Share your harvest with friends, family, or neighbors for more-- more connection and more joy, spreading the love of gardening and fresh produce!
Growing Greek Pepperoncini peppers in your garden is full of rewards. Order seeds here.
From ease of cultivation to culinary uses, pest deterring services and nutritional value, these peppers offer a range of benefits for gardeners. Give 'em a try! Your taste buds, garden, friends and family will thank you!
Your garden coach,
Theresa