Pick bell peppers when they get shiny, dark green and firm. When left on the plant, most peppers will turn red and are still good to eat. Harvest most hot peppers when they turn red or yellow, depending on the variety. Jalapenos are mature when the reach good size and become a deep, dark green. Serving Red and green peppers are good sources of Vitamin C, some Vitamin A and small amounts of several minerals.
Red peppers have more Vitamin A than green peppers.
Peppers are good raw or cooked. Eat them as a snack, to decorate food, or add them to salads and casseroles. Stuff peppers with seasoned bread crumbs or meat, and bake them. Storing Store peppers in the vegetable crisper to the refrigerator or other covered containers. Use them within 3-5 days after harvesting.