Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and colorful meal that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. These stuffed peppers are filled with a tasty mixture of vegan ingredients, making them a healthy choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and fulfilling dish. With fresh herbs, veggies, and a touch of vegan cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers. First, they are packed with nutrients from all the colorful vegetables. Second, they are versatile; you can customize the filling according to your preferences. This dish can be served as a main course or as a side. Plus, they are visually appealing and will impress your family and friends!
How to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 pound vegan ground
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 small white onion (diced)
- 8 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 bunch kale (destemmed and roughly chopped)
- 2 cups orzo (cooked according to package directions)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds
- 1 cup artichoke hearts (chopped)
- ¾ cup kalamata olives (diced)
- Zest of 1 large lemon (plus its juice)
- 1/3 cup fresh dill (chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 6 large bell peppers
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted vegan butter
- Vegan feta (for garnish)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
Directions:
- To prepare the filling, heat the avocado oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the vegan ground and season it with dried oregano, dried basil, kosher salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Use a wooden spoon to break the ground into bite-size pieces and cook, stirring often, for 4 to 5 minutes until heated through.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the chopped kale, cooked orzo, vegan mozzarella shreds, chopped artichoke hearts, diced kalamata olives, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Stir everything together until well combined and most of the cheese has melted, about 2 to 3 minutes. Adjust seasonings if necessary. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Meanwhile, prepare the bell peppers by cutting each in half lengthwise and scooping out the seeds and white membranes.
- Spoon the filling into each halved pepper and place them in a large baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted vegan butter.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the stuffed peppers. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Once done, garnish with fresh dill, vegan feta, and lemon wedges. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!
How to Serve Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
Serve these stuffed peppers warm, garnished with fresh dill and vegan feta. You can also add a side salad or some crusty bread to make a complete meal. They are great for sharing and make excellent leftovers!
How to Store Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Mediterranean-Inspired Stuffed Peppers
- Choose bell peppers in different colors for a vibrant presentation.
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the filling.
- You can use quinoa or rice instead of orzo for a different texture.
- If you like it spicy, increase the red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños.
Variation
Feel free to mix and match the ingredients for the filling! You can use different vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, or swap the vegan ground for textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can even add nuts or seeds for an extra crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the peppers. Store them in the fridge and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
2. Are these stuffed peppers gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs will add great flavor. Just be sure to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried ones.
