Stuffed red peppers with feta cheese are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. The sweetness of the red peppers pairs beautifully with the tangy and creamy feta cheese, while the semi-hard cheese adds richness and depth to the stuffing. The garlic, tomatoes, and fresh coriander infuse the dish with a burst of freshness and spice. Topped with a drizzle of balsamic cream, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a satisfying, healthy meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 5 red peppers
- 400 g Greek feta cheese
- 100 g semi-hard cheese (such as Gouda, Cheddar, or similar)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 100 g tomatoes, finely chopped
- Fresh coriander, chopped (to taste)
- 200 g yoghurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Black pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Balsamic vinegar cream (for drizzling)
Directions
1. Prepare the Red Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cut the tops off the red peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside.
- Place the peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, crumble the feta cheese and grate the semi-hard cheese.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped tomatoes, and chopped fresh coriander to the bowl.
- Stir in the yoghurt, olive oil, and season the mixture with pepper and oregano to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
- Stuff each red pepper with the cheese and herb mixture, packing it tightly.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright on the baking sheet or in a baking dish.
4. Bake the Peppers:
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden on top.
5. Drizzle with Balsamic Vinegar Cream:
- Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar cream over the stuffed peppers just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Serve:
- Serve the stuffed red peppers warm, garnished with additional fresh coriander if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a salad: Serve these stuffed peppers with a fresh mixed green salad or a Greek salad with olives and cucumber for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the filling and balsamic glaze.
- Enjoy with a glass of wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the stuffed peppers.
Cooking Tips
- Customize the filling: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for variety.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Bake the peppers whole or halved: If you prefer smaller servings, you can cut the peppers in half and stuff them instead of using whole peppers.
- Add more veggies: You can add sautéed onions or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian version: You can add more vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, for a heartier, plant-based stuffing.
- Meat lovers: For a non-vegetarian twist, add cooked ground chicken or turkey to the stuffing mix.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or mint to complement the flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
These stuffed red peppers are packed with nutrients. Red peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while feta cheese provides protein and calcium. The addition of yoghurt adds probiotics and further protein, while the fresh coriander offers vitamins and a boost of flavor. The balsamic vinegar cream adds a touch of tangy sweetness, making this dish both tasty and healthy.
Conclusion
Stuffed red peppers with feta cheese are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served in many different ways. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a flavorful appetizer, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors. The combination of feta cheese, semi-hard cheese, and vegetables makes it a satisfying and nutrient-packed meal that will leave everyone wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
-
Can I use different peppers? While red peppers are the best choice for their sweetness, you can also use yellow or orange peppers, or even green peppers for a slightly more tangy flavor.
-
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the feta cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and use a plant-based yoghurt for the filling.
-
Can I freeze these stuffed peppers? Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to the cooking process.
-
Can I add meat to the filling? Absolutely! You can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or chicken to the filling for a heartier dish.