Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Stuffed peppers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients. This vegetarian version is filled with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, onions, basil, and garlic, making it a healthy and satisfying meal.

History

Stuffed peppers have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The concept of stuffing vegetables with a savory filling can be traced back to ancient times, when cooks would use whatever ingredients they had on hand to create a hearty and delicious meal.

Ingredients

4 red or green bell peppers
2 cups grape tomatoes
1 medium onion
1 cup fresh basil leaves
3 garlic cloves
2 tsp olive oil
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly grease a large shallow baking pan.
Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Arrange the peppers cut side up in the baking pan and lightly grease the cut edges.
Halve the tomatoes and chop the onion and basil. Finely chop the garlic.
In a bowl, toss together the tomatoes, onion, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spoon equal portions of the mixture into the peppers and roast in the upper third of the oven until the peppers are tender, about 20 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked quinoa or rice to the filling for added texture and protein.
Top the stuffed peppers with cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to choose peppers that are firm and have a vibrant color for the best results.

- You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables, grains, or proteins to suit your taste preferences.

- To save time, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to stuff the peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve vegetarian stuffed peppers with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the peppers in the oven helps to bring out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious charred flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the grape tomatoes with diced tomatoes or cherry tomatoes if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the stuffed peppers in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and bake the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stuffed peppers with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Vegetarian stuffed peppers pair well with a light and refreshing white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of vegetarian stuffed peppers contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of vegetarian stuffed peppers contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of vegetarian stuffed peppers contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of vegetarian stuffed peppers contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Vegetarian stuffed peppers are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten.

Summary

Vegetarian stuffed peppers are a nutritious and delicious meal option that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vegetarian stuffed peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal option that is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this flavorful dish for a satisfying and healthy meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marie at her cozy little cottage in the countryside. Marie was known for her delicious vegetarian dishes, and on that particular day, she had prepared a mouthwatering meal of stuffed peppers for us to enjoy.

As we sat down at her kitchen table, the aroma of the peppers filled the air, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The peppers were tender and flavorful, filled with a savory mixture of rice, beans, and spices. I asked Marie for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. But the basic elements remain the same - colorful bell peppers stuffed with a delicious vegetarian filling. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dish for family gatherings and special occasions.

I remember the first time I made these stuffed peppers for my grandchildren. They were skeptical at first, unsure about the idea of eating a stuffed vegetable. But once they took their first bite, their faces lit up with delight. They couldn't believe how tasty and satisfying these peppers were.

As I prepare the ingredients for the stuffed peppers today, I can't help but think back to that summer day at Marie's cottage. I chop the onions, garlic, and tomatoes, sautéing them in a skillet until they are soft and fragrant. I add in the cooked rice, black beans, and a blend of spices - cumin, paprika, and a touch of chili powder for a bit of heat.

Next, I carefully slice the tops off the bell peppers, removing the seeds and membranes to create a hollow cavity for the filling. I stuff each pepper with the rice and bean mixture, packing it in tightly to ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor. I top the peppers with a sprinkle of cheese, then pop them in the oven to bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

As the stuffed peppers bake, the kitchen fills with the tantalizing scent of roasted peppers and melted cheese. I can't wait to dig into these delectable treats, knowing that they will bring joy and satisfaction to everyone who tastes them.

As I sit down at the table to savor the first bite of the stuffed peppers, I am transported back to that sunny day at Marie's cottage. The flavors are just as delicious as I remember, the peppers tender and juicy, the filling rich and savory. I can't help but feel grateful for the friendships and memories that have inspired me to create and share this recipe with my loved ones.

As I finish my meal, I feel a sense of contentment and fulfillment. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and nurture those around me. And this recipe for vegetarian stuffed peppers is a perfect example of how food can bring people together, creating lasting memories and traditions that will be cherished for years to come.

I may have learned this recipe from my dear friend Marie, but it has become a part of my own culinary repertoire, a reflection of my own tastes and preferences. And as I continue to cook and experiment in the kitchen, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart - a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that comes from sharing good food with the ones we love.