Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers

Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives

Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives bring a burst of flavor to your table! These colorful peppers are packed with healthy ingredients like quinoa, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, making them a tasty and nutritious meal option. They are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Making these stuffed peppers is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are healthy and full of nutrients. The combination of quinoa and vegetables creates a filling meal that won’t weigh you down. Additionally, the flavors of feta cheese and olives add a delicious Mediterranean twist. This dish is also versatile; you can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Finally, stuffed peppers are visually appealing, making them a hit at any dinner party.

How to Make Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives

Ingredients:

2 large bell peppers (any color)
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: additional vegetables (e.g., diced zucchini, spinach) for the filling
For baking: about 1/4 inch water in the bottom of the baking dish

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Halve the bell peppers lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
In a bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, feta cheese, chopped olives, halved cherry tomatoes, parsley, olive oil, oregano, and salt and pepper.
Spoon the filling into the pepper halves, packing it lightly.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, adding about 1/4 inch of water to the bottom. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through and possibly lightly golden on top.
Serve warm, optionally with tzatziki or a light salad on the side.

How to Serve Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives

Serve the stuffed peppers warm as a delightful main dish. They pair well with tzatziki sauce for a cool, creamy contrast. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or some warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.

How to Store Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives

You can store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Delicious Mediterranean Style Stuffed Peppers with Feta Olives

Choose vibrant bell peppers for the best taste and presentation.
Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables to the filling.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
When baking, check the peppers after 30 minutes to see if they need more time.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, or using brown rice instead of quinoa. Adding chickpeas or different herbs can also bring new flavors to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and fill the peppers up to a day in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

2. Can I use frozen bell peppers for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh bell peppers, but you can use frozen ones if they are thawed and drained well. The texture might be softer, but they will still taste great!