Air Fryer Roasted Tri-Color Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the easiest way to make sweet and savory roasted bell peppers—right in your air fryer! These air fryer tri-color rainbow bell peppers are vibrant, healthy, and bursting with roasted flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and no preheating required, this quick air fryer side dish will be your new go-to for meal prep, snacking, or adding to your favorite recipes.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Tri-Color Rainbow Bell Peppers

• These roasted bell peppers are packed with natural sweetness that gets even better in the air fryer. Cooking at high heat caramelizes the edges slightly, giving you that delicious roasted flavor without using the oven. The texture stays just right—tender yet still crisp. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and bite.

• They’re incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients and no complicated prep. Slice, season, and toss them in the air fryer—done! It’s a great beginner-friendly recipe that’s also impressive enough for guests. Cleanup is a breeze since everything goes right into the air fryer basket.

• This recipe is super versatile and can be used in tons of ways. Serve them as a healthy side, tuck them into fajitas, or mix into pastas and stir-fries. Their flavor pairs well with so many dishes. You’ll love having them ready in your fridge for quick meals.

• It’s a healthy option that fits into almost any diet—vegan, gluten-free, paleo, Whole30, and low-carb. You can skip the oil for a fat-free version or customize the seasonings to your liking. No preservatives, no extras—just real, wholesome ingredients. Great for meal prep or healthy snacking.

• You can use any color bell peppers you have on hand—red, yellow, orange, or green. The mix of colors makes the dish look beautiful and appetizing. It’s also a fun way to use up extra peppers from the fridge. Every batch turns out flavorful and vibrant!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Tri-Color Rainbow Bell Peppers

• Bell peppers – You can use any color you like—red, yellow, orange, or green. A mix of colors adds a beautiful presentation and a sweet, slightly smoky flavor when roasted.

• Olive oil (optional) – Adds a rich flavor and helps the seasonings stick to the peppers. You can leave it out for a fat-free version.

• Salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the bell peppers.

• Black pepper – Adds a mild heat and complements the sweetness of the roasted peppers.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Tri-Color Rainbow Bell Peppers

• Air fryer – Cooks the peppers quickly and evenly with a delicious roasted finish.

• Knife – Needed to cut the peppers into strips.

• Cutting board – A safe surface for slicing the peppers.

• Spoon (optional) – Can be used to scoop out the seeds more easily.

How To Make Air Fryer Tri-Color Rainbow Bell Peppers

• Wash the bell peppers thoroughly under cool water.

• Slice each pepper in half and remove the stems and seeds.

• Cut the peppers into strips and place them right into the air fryer basket.

• Drizzle with olive oil if using, then sprinkle on some salt and pepper.

• Toss the pepper strips inside the basket to coat them evenly with the seasoning.

• Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 15 minutes.

• At the halfway point, pause and give the basket a shake so the peppers roast evenly.

• After 15 minutes, check for your desired tenderness—cook 5 minutes more if you want them softer.

• Remove from the air fryer and enjoy warm or let them cool.

Serving Suggestions

• These peppers pair beautifully with barbecue pork chops, baked chicken legs, or grilled fish.

• Use them as a flavorful topping for air fryer hamburgers, turkey panini, or lettuce wraps.

• Stir into chicken fajitas, taco pasta, rice bowls, or stir-fried scallops for extra color and flavor.

• Chill the peppers and toss them into pasta salads, quinoa salad, or lettuce salad.

• Serve alongside dips like homemade hummus, tzatziki, or guacamole for a colorful snack board.

Tips For Success

• Cut the peppers evenly. Try to slice your bell peppers into uniform strips so they cook at the same rate. This helps avoid some pieces getting too soft while others stay undercooked. Keeping the size consistent also gives a nice, even roasted look. Whether you prefer thick or thin strips, consistency is key.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. It’s okay if the peppers overlap a bit, but don’t completely pack the basket. Good air circulation is what makes the air fryer so effective at roasting. If you’re making a big batch, cook in two rounds for best results. This helps all the pieces roast instead of steaming.

• Use oil for extra flavor (but it’s optional). A light drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps the seasonings stick. But if you’re avoiding oil, you can skip it—the peppers will still roast beautifully. Either way, give everything a good toss before cooking. If you’re using oil, add it before the seasoning to help coat the strips.

• Shake the basket halfway through. Shaking the basket midway through cooking helps the peppers brown evenly. It also keeps them from sticking together or to the bottom of the basket. Use tongs or gently shake to redistribute them. This simple step makes a big difference in the final texture.

• Adjust cooking time to your preference. If you like your peppers super soft and tender, add 5 more minutes to the cooking time. If you like a little bite and char, 15 minutes should be perfect. Keep in mind that peppers continue to soften a bit as they cool. Check them right when the timer goes off and customize as needed.

Variations And Substitutions

• Switch up the colors. While the recipe uses red, orange, and yellow bell peppers, you can use green peppers too. Green peppers have a slightly more bitter flavor, which adds variety. You can even try using all one color if that’s what you have on hand. Mixed colors just make it look more festive!

• Try different seasonings. The classic salt and pepper combo is delicious, but you can get creative. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a kick. A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning or lemon pepper can also bring a whole new flavor profile. Customize the spices based on what you’re serving them with.

• Add fresh herbs after cooking. Once the peppers are out of the air fryer, try tossing them with fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil. This adds a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. If you like a Mediterranean vibe, try crumbling some feta on top too. A little drizzle of balsamic glaze works great for a gourmet touch.

• Use cooking spray instead of oil. If you’re watching your fat intake but still want that roasted effect, a light spray of oil works well. It helps the seasonings stick and encourages slight browning. You’ll still get that roasted flavor without using too much oil. It’s a nice middle-ground option.

• Add onions or other veggies. You can mix sliced onions with the peppers for even more flavor. Mushrooms, zucchini, or thinly sliced carrots can also be added to the mix. Just be sure to cut them to similar sizes so they cook evenly. This turns your side dish into a full roasted veggie medley.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage. Let the roasted bell peppers cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also portion them out into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go meals during the week. If you want to freeze them, store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months—just note they’ll be softer once thawed.

• Reheating. To reheat, pop the peppers back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warmed through. You can also warm them in a skillet on the stove or microwave them in 30-second intervals. For best texture, the air fryer or skillet will help keep them slightly crisp. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these peppers without oil?

Yes, you can absolutely make these air fryer bell peppers without oil. The oil is optional and mainly used to enhance flavor and help the seasoning stick. The peppers will still roast beautifully and develop a sweet, tender texture without it. This makes the recipe perfect for oil-free or low-fat diets.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

No, preheating is not necessary for this recipe. The air fryer heats up quickly, and the peppers will start roasting right away. Skipping the preheat saves time and still gives excellent results. Just add the peppers to the cold basket and start cooking.

Can I use frozen bell peppers?

While fresh bell peppers are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Keep in mind that frozen peppers release more moisture and may not get as crisp. Let them thaw slightly and pat dry before cooking to help reduce sogginess. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly.

What’s the best way to cut the peppers for air frying?

Cut the peppers into evenly sized strips so they cook uniformly. Avoid making the strips too thin, as they can overcook quickly. About ½-inch wide strips are a good standard. Removing all seeds and stems helps keep things tidy in the basket.

Can I make a large batch at once?

You can, but it’s best to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. When the basket is too full, the peppers may steam instead of roast. If you’re doubling the recipe, cook in two rounds for the best roasted texture. After cooking, you can combine everything and reheat briefly if needed.

How can I make the peppers more flavorful?

Get creative with seasonings and toppings! Add garlic powder, chili flakes, Italian herbs, or even a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost. After cooking, sprinkle on some parmesan or feta, or drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley also add brightness and color.

Do the peppers get soggy as they cool?

Not soggy, but they do soften a bit as they cool down. If you prefer them with more bite, enjoy them warm from the air fryer. You can also reheat them quickly in the air fryer to bring back some crispness. For salads and cold dishes, the softer texture is actually perfect.

What can I serve these peppers with?

These roasted peppers are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside grilled meats, fish, or tofu for a balanced plate. Add them to wraps, pasta, grain bowls, or stir-fries for a colorful boost. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or paired with dips for a healthy snack.

Other Easy Bell Pepper Recipes

Baked Bell Peppers With Ground Turkey – These oven-baked bell pepper halves are stuffed with flavorful ground turkey for a healthy, low-carb dinner the whole family will love.

Grilled Sweet Bell Peppers – These charred and tender grilled bell peppers make a vibrant and easy side dish packed with smoky flavor.

Stir Fry Shrimp With Peppers, Tomatoes, and Bean Sprouts – This quick and colorful shrimp stir fry is bursting with fresh veggies and perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Mexican Pasta With Fajita Veggies – Bold and cheesy, this Mexican-inspired pasta dish is loaded with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and zesty spices.

Mini Sweet Peppers Stuffed With Cream Cheese – These bite-sized mini peppers are filled with creamy cheese for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Sauteed Peppers and Onions – This simple skillet recipe delivers perfectly tender bell peppers and onions that are great for tacos, sandwiches, or sides.

Roasted Red Bell Peppers in Marinade – These juicy roasted red peppers are marinated in olive oil and garlic for a deliciously rich and savory addition to any meal.

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