Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers
Introduction
Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and healthy meal option. They combine the flavors of fresh vegetables, tender tuna, and creamy feta cheese, all packed neatly in vibrant bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a light dinner, a hearty lunch, or for meal prep throughout the week.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers is a great choice for several reasons. First, they are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Second, they are healthy and packed with nutrients from the vegetables and fish. Lastly, this recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
How to Make Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 4 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk light tuna, drained
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, red onion, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the tuna mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly charred at the edges.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving.
How to Serve Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers
Serve these stuffed peppers warm as a main dish or a filling side. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a fresh salad or crusty bread. They also make for a great appetizer when cut into smaller portions.
How to Store Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers
If you have leftovers, store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can place them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers
- You can add other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to the tuna mixture for more nutrition.
- If you like your peppers to be softer, increase the baking time.
- For a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling.
Variation
You can replace the tuna with cooked chicken, chickpeas, or even quinoa for a vegetarian option. Feel free to change up the cheese to your favorite kind if you don’t have feta on hand.
FAQs
1. Can I make Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the peppers and the filling in advance. Just stuff them and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
2. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What else can I add to the filling?
You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as olives, capers, or different herbs like parsley or dill.
