Ingredients:

• 4 sweet bell peppers
• Vegetable oil (for brushing)
• 4 eggs
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 80g (2.8 oz) sausage (or substitute with baked or boiled meat)
• Fresh herbs (dill or basil)
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Cheese (your choice, grated)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

• Preheat your oven to 190°C (370°F).
• Take 4 sweet bell peppers and cut each one in half lengthwise. This will form the “boats” for your stuffing.
• Remove the core and seeds from the peppers, but leave the green stems intact. Keeping the stems helps the peppers hold their shape while baking.
• Brush the insides and outsides of the peppers with a light coat of vegetable oil. This ensures that the peppers soften and slightly caramelize during baking.
• Place the prepared peppers on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a medium-sized bowl, crack 4 eggs. Beat them lightly.
• Dice the 2 tomatoes into small cubes and add them to the eggs.
• Chop the green onions and add them to the bowl.
• Dice the sausage into small pieces. If you prefer, you can substitute the sausage with baked or boiled chicken, turkey, or ham. Add this to the mixture.
• Chop a handful of fresh herbs, such as dill or basil, and add them to the egg mixture for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Mince 2 cloves of garlic or pass them through a garlic press and add them to the filling.
• Grate your cheese of choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or a semi-hard cheese works well) and mix it into the filling.
• Season the filling with salt to taste. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.

3. Stuff the Peppers:

• Generously spoon the prepared filling into each halved pepper. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed and that it reaches the edges of each pepper half.
• Place the stuffed peppers back on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Peppers:

• Once the peppers are stuffed, place them in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender, and the filling has set.
• The cheese should be melted and slightly golden on top, signaling that your stuffed peppers are ready.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
• Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately.
• These stuffed peppers can be served as a standalone meal or with a side salad or bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• Customize the Filling: Feel free to switch up the ingredients in the filling based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, switch the sausage for bacon, or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Options: Use a cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda, to give the filling a rich, creamy texture.
• Prepare in Advance: You can assemble the stuffed peppers the night before and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop them into the oven for a quick and easy meal.
• Extra Heat: For those who love spice, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra kick.

Storage:

• In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The stuffed peppers will keep for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. To do this, assemble the peppers and place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Cholesterol: 220mg

FAQs:

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, cooked quinoa, or crumbled tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

2. What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or even feta can be used in this recipe. Feta will give it a tangy flavor, while cheddar or mozzarella will melt beautifully and provide a creamy texture.

3. Can I prepare the peppers in advance?
Yes! You can prep the peppers a day ahead, stuff them, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Simply place them in the oven when it’s time to cook.

4. Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a more robust flavor, use red or yellow bell peppers. They are sweeter than green bell peppers. You can even try poblano peppers for a mild kick.

5. How can I ensure the filling is fully cooked?
Check that the eggs in the filling are set and not runny. The cheese should be fully melted, and the tops of the peppers should be slightly golden. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Conclusion:

Stuffed bell peppers with eggs, sausage, and vegetables are a perfect example of how to turn simple ingredients into a delicious and wholesome meal. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to swap ingredients based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. With its combination of creamy eggs, savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and enjoy the compliments from family and friends!