Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need. The ingredients are simple, but together they create a mouthwatering medley of flavors.

For the Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color works!)
• A drizzle of olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 cup cooked ground beef, lamb, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for vegans)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Toppings:

• A dollop of Greek yogurt
• Extra feta crumbles
• A sprinkle of fresh dill

Step-by-Step Guide to Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers

Preparing the Bell Peppers

Let’s start with the stars of the show—the bell peppers. How do you get them ready for stuffing?

1. Slice the Peppers: Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If they don’t stand upright, you can trim the bottoms slightly.
2. Blanch (Optional): If you prefer softer peppers, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. This step is optional but helps achieve a tender texture.
3. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly coat the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Making the Filling

Here’s where the magic happens. This filling is bursting with Greek-inspired goodness.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
2. Add Protein and Spices: Stir in the ground beef (or chickpeas for a vegetarian version). Sprinkle in oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper, letting the flavors meld together.
3. Incorporate Grains and Veggies: Mix in the cooked rice or quinoa, diced tomatoes, and olives. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.
4. Fold in Cheese and Herbs: Turn off the heat and stir in feta cheese and fresh parsley for that final flavor boost.

Stuffing and Baking

Now for the fun part—stuffing the peppers.

1. Fill the Peppers: Generously stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, pressing it down slightly to pack it in.
2. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water or tomato sauce to the bottom to keep them moist during baking.
3. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly browned on top.

A Mediterranean-Inspired Culinary Adventure Awaits

There you have it—a complete guide to making Greek stuffed bell peppers. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a little taste of Greece, right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those bell peppers, fire up the oven, and let your kitchen transform into a Mediterranean escape. And don’t forget to share your masterpiece—because good food is always better when shared.