Stuffed Cherry Peppers

Stuffed Cherry Peppers Recipe - A Taste of Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4

Introduction

Stuffed cherry peppers are a delicious and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. These peppers are filled with a mixture of prosciutto and provolone cheese, then marinated in a garlic and olive oil mixture for a burst of flavor in every bite.

History

Stuffed cherry peppers have been a popular Italian dish for many years. The combination of spicy peppers with savory prosciutto and cheese has been a favorite among food lovers for generations.

Ingredients

3-4 jars of mild cherry peppers
Chopped Proscuitto
Chopped asiago or provolone
0.5 - 1 cup of olive oil
2-4 cloves of minced garlic
3-4 tsp of juice from the pepper jars

How to prepare

Cut the tops off the peppers and clean out the insides. Mix the prosciutto and cheese together, then stuff the peppers with the mixture.
Combine the olive oil, garlic, and pepper juice.
Place the stuffed peppers upside down in a pan, with the stuffing side down.
Pour the olive oil mixture over the peppers and let them marinate overnight.

Variations

Substitute the prosciutto with cooked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile.
Add breadcrumbs to the cheese mixture for added texture.
Top the stuffed peppers with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before baking for a crispy topping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean out the insides of the peppers thoroughly to remove any seeds or membranes.

- Use mild cherry peppers for a more subtle heat, or opt for hot cherry peppers for a spicier kick.

- Marinating the stuffed peppers overnight allows the flavors to meld together for a more intense taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stuffed cherry peppers as an appetizer at a party or as a side dish with a main meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the stuffed peppers overnight for the best flavor.

- Bake the peppers in the oven until they are tender and the cheese is melted.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or cheddar.

- Substitute the prosciutto with cooked ham or salami.

Make Ahead Tips

Stuffed cherry peppers can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the stuffed cherry peppers on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair stuffed cherry peppers with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed cherry peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of stuffed cherry peppers contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of stuffed cherry peppers contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of stuffed cherry peppers contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of stuffed cherry peppers contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Stuffed cherry peppers are a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Alergens

Stuffed cherry peppers contain dairy (provolone cheese) and pork (prosciutto).

Summary

Stuffed cherry peppers are a flavorful appetizer that is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories. They are a good source of proteins and vitamins.

Summary

Stuffed cherry peppers are a delicious and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With a combination of prosciutto, provolone cheese, and a garlic and olive oil marinade, these peppers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Stuffed Cherry Peppers. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little coastal town. Maria was known for her delicious homemade dishes, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve whenever I came to visit.

On this particular day, Maria greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a special treat for you today," she said as she led me into her cozy kitchen. Maria reached into her pantry and pulled out a jar of beautiful red cherry peppers. "These are from my garden," she said proudly. "I thought we could make stuffed cherry peppers together."

I had never heard of stuffed cherry peppers before, but I was eager to learn. Maria guided me through the process, showing me how to carefully slice open the peppers and remove the seeds. She then mixed together a flavorful filling of breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely divine.

As we stuffed the peppers and placed them in a baking dish, Maria shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had brought it with her from Italy many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each cook adding their own unique twist to make it their own.

After the peppers had baked to perfection and the cheese on top had turned a golden brown, Maria and I sat down to enjoy our creation. The combination of the spicy peppers and the savory filling was a match made in heaven. I couldn't believe how something so simple could be so delicious.

From that day on, stuffed cherry peppers became a staple in my own kitchen. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I made them, I thought of Maria and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with the recipe, adding different ingredients and flavors to suit my own taste. Sometimes I use sausage or prosciutto in the filling, other times I add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick. But no matter how I make them, the stuffed cherry peppers always bring back memories of that summer day in Maria's kitchen.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my own jars of cherry peppers and recipe cards filled with variations of the original recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for the people and experiences that have shaped my love of cooking. Each recipe tells a story, a tale of tradition, friendship, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

And so, as I pass on this recipe for stuffed cherry peppers to you, I hope that you will create your own memories and traditions around it. May it bring you as much joy and warmth as it has brought me over the years. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love. Bon appétit!