Sweet banana peppers, known scientifically as Capsicum annuum, are mild, sweet peppers that resemble small bananas in shape, hence their name. Originating in South America, they were brought to Europe by explorers like Christopher Columbus, eventually finding their way into various cuisines around the world. In the United States, sweet banana peppers became popular for their mild flavor, making them a versatile addition to salads, sandwiches, and for pickling. They transition from a light yellow to a bright red as they ripen, offering not only a sweet taste but also a vibrant color to dishes, with a heat level that is minimal, sitting at around 0-500 Scoville Heat Units.