Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These Stuffed Greek Peppers are bursting with Mediterranean sunshine, combining tender peppers with a savory rice and herb filling. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend meal, and it's easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy dish the whole family will love! This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color, or a mix!), halved lengthwise and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine the filling: Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, feta cheese, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Stuff the peppers: Spoon the rice mixture evenly into the prepared pepper halves.
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Bake: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and add about 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the dish. This helps keep them moist during baking. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the rice is cooked through.
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Serve: Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers:
- Choosing your peppers: Any color bell pepper will work wonderfully in this recipe. For a sweeter flavor, opt for red bell peppers.
- Don't overcook the rice: Be sure to use the correct amount of liquid according to the rice package instructions. Overcooked rice can make the filling mushy.
- Add some protein: For a heartier meal, add 1 cup of cooked ground meat (beef, lamb, or chicken) to the filling.
- Customize your herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative.
- Spicy Stuffed Peppers: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for some extra heat.
- Cheese Lover's Version: Increase the amount of feta cheese, or add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This recipe provides a balanced and healthy meal, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and good for you. Enjoy!