Stuffed peppers have always been a beloved comfort food, and this recipe takes them to the next level with a rich, cheesy filling that’s bursting with flavor. Greek feta, semi-hard cheese, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs come together to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner option or an impressive side dish, these stuffed peppers will satisfy your cravings and delight your guests.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- Red Peppers: 5 large
- Greek Feta Cheese: 400 g (approx. 2 cups, crumbled)
- Semi-Hard Cheese (e.g., Gouda, Cheddar): 100 g (approx. 1 cup, grated)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Tomatoes: 100 g (approx. 1 small tomato, diced)
- Coriander: 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Yogurt: 200 g (approx. 3/4 cup)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Pepper: to taste
- Oregano: to taste
- Cream with Balsamic Vinegar: for drizzling (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Cut the tops off the red peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, crumble 400 g of Greek feta cheese.
- Grate 100 g of semi-hard cheese and add it to the feta.
- Mince 1 clove of garlic and add it to the cheese mixture.
- Dice 100 g of tomatoes and add them to the mixture.
- Add chopped coriander to the bowl.
- Add Yogurt and Olive Oil:
- Add 200 g of yogurt to the cheese mixture.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture.
- Season with pepper to taste and mix everything well.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Fill the prepared red peppers with the cheese mixture.
- Bake the Peppers:
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Drizzle and brush with a bit more olive oil.
- Sprinkle oregano over the peppers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Drizzle the baked peppers with cream with balsamic vinegar before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Side Dish: Pair with crusty bread or rice.
Cooking Tips:
- Tender Peppers: Ensure the peppers are fully cooked and tender before serving.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese for unique flavors.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Peppers: High in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Yogurt: Adds probiotics for digestive health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
Nutritional Facts (per stuffed pepper, estimated):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The rich, cheesy filling and roasted peppers create a delicious dish.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Conclusion:
These Cheese Stuffed Peppers are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new recipe to enjoy with your family, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. Try them out and share your thoughts in the comments. Bon appétit, friends!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can substitute the semi-hard cheese with your favorite variety, such as Gouda, Cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when ready to serve.
- Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
- Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before or after baking. Thaw and bake/reheat before serving.
- What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
- These stuffed peppers pair well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes.
- Can I use green or yellow peppers instead?
- Certainly! You can use any color of bell pepper you prefer.
- How do I know when the peppers are done?
- The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the filling should be golden brown.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- What can I use instead of yogurt?
- You can substitute yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free alternative.
- Can I add meat to the filling?
- Yes, cooked ground meat like beef or turkey can be added to the cheese mixture.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat before serving.