Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and colorful dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. These peppers are perfect as a side dish or a main course, and they cater to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Filled with a tasty mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and grains, this recipe brings together healthy ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s a healthy option, packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and crunchy peppers. It’s also simple to make, using everyday ingredients you may already have at home. Plus, you can customize the fillings based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers are not only nutritious but also filling and delicious!

How to Make Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Making Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers is straightforward. Follow these steps to create an enjoyable and colorful meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

Bell Peppers: 6 large bell peppers, any color (red, yellow, orange, or green) – These form the vibrant and edible bowls for our flavorful filling. Choose firm, evenly shaped peppers for the best presentation and stability when stuffing.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Essential for sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich, Mediterranean flavor to the dish. Opt for extra virgin for its superior taste and health benefits.
Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – Provides a foundational savory flavor to the filling, adding depth and aroma as it caramelizes slightly during cooking.
Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and pungent, garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the filling, complementing the spinach and feta beautifully. Freshly minced is always preferred for the best flavor.
Spinach: 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped – The star green in our stuffing, spinach adds a healthy dose of vitamins, minerals, and a mild, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with feta. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully when cooked.
Feta Cheese: 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled – Salty, tangy, and creamy, feta cheese is the key to the Mediterranean flavor profile. It melts slightly during baking, creating pockets of deliciousness throughout the filling. Choose block feta in brine for the best flavor and texture, rather than pre-crumbled.
Cooked Rice or Quinoa: 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa – Acts as a binder for the filling and adds substance and texture. Cooked rice (white or brown) or quinoa are both excellent choices, adding fiber and carbohydrates to the dish. Leftover cooked grains are perfect for this.
Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the filling. Toasting them enhances their flavor and texture. Walnuts or slivered almonds can be used as alternatives if pine nuts are unavailable.
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Provides a fresh, herbaceous note and vibrant green color to the filling, balancing the richness of the feta and spinach. Fresh parsley is preferred for its bright flavor.
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Mediterranean herb, oregano adds a warm, slightly peppery flavor that complements the spinach and feta. Dried oregano is convenient and provides a concentrated flavor.
Salt: To taste – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Season carefully, keeping in mind that feta cheese is already salty.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for its superior aroma and taste.
Tomato Sauce or Marinara Sauce: 1 cup tomato sauce or marinara sauce – Used for the base of the baking dish, adding moisture and a tangy tomato flavor that complements the stuffed peppers. Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.

Directions:

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the bell peppers under cold running water. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Drizzle the insides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up in a baking dish.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat.
Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the wilted spinach, crumbled feta, cooked rice or quinoa, toasted pine nuts (if using), chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling into each pepper half, pressing down gently to pack it in. Mound the filling slightly for an overflowing effect.
Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Pour the tomato sauce into the base of the baking dish around the stuffed peppers. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the peppers are tender. Check for doneness by piercing the pepper with a fork.
Broil for Extra Color (Optional): For extra browning, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or crumbled feta if desired.

How to Serve Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Serve the stuffed peppers warm, straight from the oven. They make a wonderful main dish or can be served alongside a fresh salad. You can also drizzle extra tomato sauce over the top for added flavor.

How to Store Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Use leftover cooked grains to save time.
Feel free to add other veggies or proteins to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Adjust the seasonings to your liking; taste the filling before stuffing the peppers.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding ground meat or beans for extra protein. You can also use different cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.