Vibrant Mediterranean Stuffed Pepper Recipe

Exploring the Flavors of the Mediterranean

When I think of the Mediterranean, I imagine vibrant colors, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients coming together in a harmonious dance on the plate. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that embodies the essence of this beautiful region — a Mediterranean-inspired stuffed bell pepper dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 3 large red bell peppers
• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools:

• sharp knife
• cutting board
• saucepan
• mixing bowl

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and preparing the bell peppers. I cut off the tops of the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. In a saucepan, I cook the quinoa according to the package instructions until fluffy and tender.

In a mixing bowl, I combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, olives, mint, red onion, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The mixture is tangy, salty, and refreshing — a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

I stuff the prepared bell peppers with the quinoa mixture, making sure to pack it tightly to maximize the filling in each pepper. The vibrant colors of the vegetables peeking out of the peppers create a beautiful presentation that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

I place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and slightly charred on the edges. The aroma that fills the kitchen is tantalizing, promising a mouthwatering meal ahead.

Serving:

The total weight of the cooked dish is approximately 900 grams, serving 3 people. Each serving weighs around 300 grams, with an estimated calorie count of 350 per serving.

Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of za’atar spice blend to the quinoa mixture before stuffing the peppers. The earthy, tangy notes of za’atar will elevate the dish and take it to the next level.

I encourage you to give this Mediterranean-inspired stuffed bell pepper recipe a try. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or herbs to make it your own. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen!