These stuffed bell peppers combine the sweetness of roasted peppers with a creamy, tangy, and cheesy filling made of feta, Greek yogurt, and parmesan. This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-5 stuffed peppers
Ingredients:
- Bell Peppers: 4-5 medium-sized
- Feta Cheese: 400 g (1 lb), crumbled
- Parmesan Cheese: 100 g (3 oz), grated
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 120 g (4 oz), finely chopped
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped (to taste)
- Greek Yogurt: 200 g (1/2 lb)
- Olive Oil: Drizzle (for the filling and topping)
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: For sprinkling
Directions:
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Make slits down the sides if necessary to help the peppers hold more filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, grated parmesan, minced garlic, chopped cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Add the Greek yogurt and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with black pepper (additional salt is not needed due to the feta). Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper with the cheese mixture, packing it in gently. Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano for added flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside a bowl of warm soup for a cozy dinner.
- Enjoy with crusty bread to scoop up the cheesy filling.
- Add a side of quinoa or couscous for a heartier dish.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for a sophisticated dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a variety of colored bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- Don’t overstuff the peppers to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
- If your peppers are larger, increase the cooking time slightly.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Feta Cheese: A good source of calcium and protein.
- Greek Yogurt: Contains probiotics for digestive health.
- Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds protein and depth of flavor.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free.
- Contains dairy.
Nutritional Facts (Per Stuffed Pepper):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 21 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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- Combines creamy, cheesy flavors with the natural sweetness of roasted peppers.
- Easy to prepare and bake, even for beginners.
- Perfect as a main course or a side dish.
- Highly versatile—pair with your favorite sides or enjoy as is.
Conclusion:
These stuffed bell peppers with feta and parmesan are a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish. The creamy filling paired with the tender roasted peppers creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, this recipe is a go-to for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute feta and parmesan with ricotta, mozzarella, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- How do I make this dish vegan? Use plant-based yogurt and vegan cheese substitutes to create a vegan version.
- Can I use other vegetables instead of bell peppers? Absolutely! Zucchini, eggplant, or large tomatoes make excellent alternatives.
- Can I prepare the peppers in advance? Yes, assemble the stuffed peppers a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- How do I ensure the peppers cook evenly? Make sure the peppers are cut evenly and stand upright in the baking dish.
- Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage can be mixed into the filling for added protein.
- Are these peppers spicy? No, bell peppers are sweet. For spice, add chili flakes or use spicy peppers like poblanos.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to maintain texture.
- Can I use low-fat yogurt? Yes, low-fat Greek yogurt works well, but it may slightly alter the creaminess.
- What herbs pair well with this dish? Oregano, thyme, basil, or dill complement the flavors beautifully.