Ingredients
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Bell peppers, orange, yellow, or red
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Filling of your choice, such as hummus, guacamole, chopped vegetables, or fresh salad
Instructions
Wash and dry the bell peppers. Carefully slice off the tops to create lids, setting them aside. If needed, trim a thin slice from the bottom so each pepper stands upright without cutting through the base.
2. Carve the Faces
Using a small knife, carefully cut jack-o’-lantern faces into the front of each pepper. Try triangle eyes, a pointy nose, or a crooked smile. Keep the openings large enough to see the filling inside.
3. Remove the Seeds
Reach inside each pepper and remove the seeds and white membranes. Rinse the inside under cool water, then drain and pat dry.
4. Add the Filling
Spoon your chosen filling into each pepper. Hummus, guacamole, chopped vegetables, or a fresh salad all make colorful options. Avoid overfilling so the peppers are easy to move and serve.
5. Replace the Lids
Place the pepper tops back on, slightly angled if you want to show off the carved faces and fillings.
6. Arrange and Serve
Arrange the Jack-o’-Lantern Bell Peppers on a serving platter. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
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Choose firm peppers: Fresh, sturdy peppers hold their shape better when carved and filled.
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Pick orange for a pumpkin look: Yellow and red peppers add a colorful twist to the Halloween platter.
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Keep the base intact: Avoid cutting all the way through the bottom when removing seeds or trimming the pepper.
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Dry the inside well: Excess water can make hummus, guacamole, and other fillings watery.
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Use simple faces: Triangle eyes and a zigzag smile are easy to carve and instantly recognizable.
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Choose sturdy fillings: Thick hummus, chunky guacamole, and chopped vegetables are less likely to spill than runny dressings.
