Recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese and Herbs
Introduction:
Stuffed bell peppers are a perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and comfort. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of cheese, herbs, and a savory stuffing, then baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a wholesome meal for the family, this recipe is sure to impress with its crispy, cheesy topping and tender interior.
Ingredients:
For the stuffed peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, and green)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the bell peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside.
- Lightly brush the inside and outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
- Make the stuffing:
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, cooked quinoa (or rice), and chopped parsley.
- Season the mixture with dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients until you get a creamy, cohesive mixture.
- Stuff the peppers:
- Spoon the cheese and quinoa mixture into each bell pepper, packing it gently to ensure the peppers are fully stuffed.
- Bake the stuffed peppers:
- Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with the additional shredded mozzarella cheese for a cheesy topping.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once the peppers are fully baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
- Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, cheesy stuffed peppers!
These stuffed bell peppers are perfect for a healthy dinner or a delightful side dish. They’re easy to customize by adding your favorite ingredients, and their vibrant colors make them a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.