Are you ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure with Greek Stuffed Peppers with Feta Cheese? This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings vibrant and nutritious flavors together in a harmonious blend that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny coasts of Greece. Imagine colorful bell peppers filled with a delectable mixture of rice, herbs, crumbled feta cheese, and succulent tomatoes, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or simply on the lookout for a wholesome and savory vegetarian meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
This dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it a perfect choice for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. The combination of tangy feta and aromatic herbs like parsley and dill infuses each bite with rich flavors, while the tender bell peppers provide a satisfying, healthy base. Not only do these stuffed peppers look stunning on the plate, but they also offer a delightful balance of textures and tastes that are hard to resist.
What makes Greek Stuffed Peppers truly irresistible is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, these stuffed peppers deliver a taste of the Mediterranean that is both comforting and refreshing. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore why you’ll fall in love with this delicious creation.
Why You’ll Love This Greek Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Richly Flavorful: The combination of feta cheese, herbs, and tomatoes bursts with Mediterranean flavor.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Healthy Meal: A vegetarian option that’s high in nutrients and perfect for a balanced diet.
- Customizable: Adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect Presentation: Impress your guests with these colorful and neatly stuffed peppers.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before getting started with the cooking process, it’s essential to have your kitchen well-prepared to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Begin by selecting fresh and vibrant bell peppers. Opt for a mix of colors like red, yellow, and green for a visual delight. Wash the peppers thoroughly and dry them before cutting.
You’ll need a sharp knife to cut the tops off the peppers and a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes. Having a medium-sized skillet or frying pan ready is important for sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors, as well as a large baking dish to accommodate the stuffed peppers comfortably while baking.
If you have a baking brush, consider using it to brush the peppers with a little olive oil for added richness. Ensure you have aluminum foil to cover the dish during the initial baking phase so the peppers cook evenly without drying out. Preparing these tools and your workspace in advance will allow you to focus on the recipe steps with ease.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and gently removing the seeds and membranes inside. This step is crucial for creating a space to hold the delicious filling, so take care with this process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring them until they become soft and the aroma is irresistible. This foundational flavor will elevate the entire dish.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
To the fragrant onion and garlic mixture, add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of herbs throughout the mixture. Allow the ingredients to meld together for 3-4 minutes before removing from heat.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake
Once the filling is prepared, gently mix in the crumbled feta cheese, creating a creamy landscape within the medley. Stuff each pepper generously with the filling, ensuring they remain standing upright in a greased or lined baking dish. Pour the vegetable broth or water around the base of the peppers for added moisture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, sealing in the warmth and allowing the peppers to cook evenly. Place the peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked ground turkey or beef for a non-vegetarian twist.
- Vegetables: Mix in diced zucchini or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
- Spices: Introduce a Mediterranean spice blend for an extra layer of complexity.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the peppers are cooked through but not overly soft to retain their shape.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried versions, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these peppers with a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the juices and flavors from the dish.
Tips
- Use a mix of pepper colors to create a beautiful presentation.
- Double the recipe to have delicious leftovers for the next day—these peppers reheat beautifully!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Total Time: 65 mins
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 8g per serving
- Sodium: 450mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make these stuffed peppers in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers. Store them in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Ricotta or goat cheese are great substitutes that will also add creaminess to the filling.
Are these peppers suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze cooked stuffed peppers. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing them in airtight containers.
How do I adjust the spice level?
Feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling mixture for a spicier version.
Conclusion
Greek Stuffed Peppers with Feta Cheese bring together a medley of vibrant, Mediterranean ingredients for a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. As you delve into each flavorful bite, you’ll appreciate the careful balance of herbs, fresh produce, and creamy feta. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a friendly gathering, this recipe captivates with its versatility and delightful taste.
Try customizing the recipe with different spices, proteins, or vegetables to match your preferences. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as we do. Don’t hesitate to leave a comment with your experiences or suggestions for variations. Happy cooking!
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Greek Stuffed Peppers with Feta Cheese
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Greek Stuffed Peppers with Feta Cheese is a delightful Mediterranean dish combining vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and gently removing the seeds and membranes inside.
- In a medium-sized skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring them until they become soft.
- To the fragrant onion and garlic mixture, add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly.
- Once the filling is prepared, gently mix in the crumbled feta cheese. Stuff each pepper generously with the filling.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Notes
Peppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 8 g