Description
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of spinach, feta cheese, grains, and Mediterranean herbs, baked until tender. Perfect as a vegetarian main or side dish, these stuffed peppers are healthy, flavorful, and visually stunning on the dinner table.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 4 stuffed peppers):
For the Peppers:
4 medium bell peppers (any color)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cooked rice or couscous
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (or whipped feta for creamier texture)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: ¼ cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts for crunch
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté onions until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3–4 minutes.
Remove from heat and mix in cooked rice/couscous, feta, oregano, thyme, paprika, and nuts (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling into each bell pepper generously.
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Optional: Remove foil in the last 5 minutes for lightly golden tops.
Step 4: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze.
Serve warm as a main or side dish.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble just before baking.
- Grain Alternatives: Quinoa or bulgur can replace rice/couscous for variation.
- Creamy Twist: Use whipped feta for a smoother, richer filling.
- Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a stronger Mediterranean taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Mediterranean
- Method: Baked / Stuffed
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
