Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad
These corn-free peppers stuffed with feta, olive, and basil salad are a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for a summer day. The peppers are roasted to tender perfection, and the filling is a flavorful combination of feta cheese, olives, basil, and a simple vinaigrette.
This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the vibrant colors of fresh peppers, resulting in a truly unforgettable culinary experience. From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll be transported to the sun-soaked shores of Greece, where the aroma of feta cheese, tangy olives, and fragrant basil fills the air.
It is time to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean! So, why wait? Let’s dive into the world of savory sensations and discover how to create the perfect stuffed peppers that will leave everyone craving for more. Get ready to savor the savory!
This recipe is from The Mediterranean Cookbook, published by Cider Press Mill. The recipe has been updated with a couple of extra ingredients.
Benefits of Incorporating Stuffed Peppers into Your Diet
Stuffed peppers are a delicious and satisfying meal and offer several health benefits. By incorporating peppers into your diet, you’re adding a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Peppers are known for their high vitamin C content, which helps boost your immune system and promotes healthy skin.
They are also corn-free and low in calories and fiber, making them an excellent choice for weight management and digestive health. The dish’s nutritional value is further enhanced when stuffed with a flavorful filling like feta, olive, and basil salad.
Feta cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, while olives are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Basil, a fragrant herb, not only adds a burst of flavor but also contains powerful antioxidants that support overall well-being. By enjoying stuffed peppers, you’re nourishing your body with a variety of nutrients while indulging in a delightful culinary experience.
Health Benefits of Feta, Olives, and Basil
Feta cheese, olives, and basil are staple ingredients in Mediterranean cuisine, known for their numerous health benefits. Feta cheese, made from sheep’s milk, is a good source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also contains probiotics, which promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Olives, on the other hand, are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to lower the risk of heart disease and reduce inflammation. They also provide vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
Basil, a fragrant herb often associated with Italian cuisine, is a flavorful addition and boasts several health benefits. It contains essential oils with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding digestion and promoting overall well-being.
By combining these three ingredients in a stuffed pepper recipe, you’re not only creating a delicious dish but also reaping the health benefits they offer.
Ingredients Needed for the Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad
To create the perfect peppers stuffed with feta, olive, and basil salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Yellow or Red Bell Peppers or a combination of both.
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Garlic Cloves
- Shallots or Red Onion
- Olive Oil
- Crumbled Feta Cheese
- Black Olives
- Salt and Pepper
- Fresh Parsley
- Fresh Basil
These ingredients can be easily sourced from your local grocery store or farmer’s market, ensuring freshness and quality. Now that you have everything you need let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for preparing the peppers.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Slice the peppers in half, and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water to clean the insides. (do not remove the tops) Place the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish.
- Place the Cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, shallots or red onion, parsley, feta, and black olives in a mixing bowl and gently stir to combine.
- Spoon the feta, olive, and basil salad mixture into each bell pepper half, pressing it down gently to fill the cavity. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly among all the peppers.
- Roast until the peppers start to collapse, 10-15 minutes, and depending on the size of the peppers, they may take an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let cook slightly. Season with salt and pepper and top with the basil leaves before servings.
Here are some tips for making this Peppers Stuffed with Feta recipe:
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper or chili powder, NouBess Hot and Spicy Sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Just add a little more to compensate for the dried herb.
- You can use any type of olives you like in this recipe. I like to use a combination of black olives and green olives.
- This recipe is best to be prepared the day you will enjoy it. This will prevent the peppers from getting soggy when it is time for lunch or dinner.
- Choose a baking dish that will fit the peppers. Do not choose one that is too large.
- Serve as a meal or with a meat, seafood, or poultry dish.
This recipe is a great way to use up leftover peppers. You can also use this recipe to make a vegetarian main dish by adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice to the filling.
Tips for Choosing the Best Peppers for Stuffing
When selecting peppers for stuffing, it’s important to choose ones that are firm, glossy, and have a vibrant color. Avoid peppers that have wrinkled or soft skin, as this indicates they may be past their prime. Bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, and green. Each color has its own unique flavor profile, with red being the sweetest and green having a slightly bitter taste.
You can choose any color you prefer or mix and match for a visually appealing presentation. Additionally, it’s a good idea to select peppers that have a flat bottom, as this will help them stand upright in the baking dish. You’ll ensure a visually stunning and flavorful dish by choosing the best peppers for stuffing.
Variations and Substitutions for the Recipe
While our recipe for peppers stuffed with feta, olive, and basil salad is already a crowd-pleaser, you can make several variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas to consider:
1. Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, you can substitute it with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese, mozzarella, or even a vegan cheese alternative.
2. Olive Varieties: Experiment with different types of olives to add a unique twist to the recipe. Kalamata olives, for example, have a distinct flavor and are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
3. Herb Substitutions: While basil is the star herb in this recipe, you can try using other fresh herbs like cilantro or even mint to add a different flavor profile.
4. Adding Protein: If you’d like to make the dish more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa, couscous, or even ground meat to the filling mixture.
Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to your liking. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions and Pairing Options for the Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad
Peppers stuffed with feta, olive, and basil salad can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with complementary dishes for a complete dining experience. Here are a few serving suggestions and pairing options to consider:
1. Serve the stuffed peppers alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich filling of the peppers.
2. Pair the stuffed peppers with a side of roasted potatoes or Mediterranean-style rice pilaf. The flavors will complement each other, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
3. For a lighter option, serve the stuffed peppers with a side of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes. This will add a burst of color and freshness to the plate.
4. For a protein option, serve the stuffed peppers with a grilled chicken. This will complete the meal if you’re looking for more protein.
Remember to garnish the stuffed peppers with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an extra touch of elegance.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers, you can store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated. Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes, checking periodically to ensure they don’t become overcooked. The flavors will intensify as the peppers sit, making them even more delicious the next day.
Final Thoughts on Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad
The recipe is from The Mediterranean Cookbook, as mentioned earlier in the post. The first time I read the recipe, I was not enthusiastic about trying it. I was totally wrong. This dish is delicious and tasty. When peppers are on sale, be sure to try the recipe.
In conclusion, peppers stuffed with feta, olive, and basil salad are a culinary delight that combines Mediterranean flavors with fresh peppers’ vibrant colors. This recipe satisfies your taste buds and provides several health benefits.
I hope you enjoy this Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad recipe, and don’t forget to let us know what you think!
Peppers Stuffed with Feta, Olive & Basil Salad
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 Yellow or Red Bell Peppers or a combination of both seeded and halved
- 12 Cherry Tomatoes halves
- 2 Garlic Cloves minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp Shallots or Red Onion chopped finely
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
- 1 cup Black Olives pitted
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped finely
- Leaves from 1 bunch of Fresh Basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Slice the peppers in half, and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water to clean the insides. (do not remove the tops) Place the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish.
- Place the Cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, shallots or red onion, parsley, feta, and black olives in a mixing bowl and gently stir to combine.
- Spoon the feta, olive, and basil salad mixture into each bell pepper half, pressing it down gently to fill the cavity. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly among all the peppers.
- Roast until the peppers start to collapse, 10-15 minutes, and depending on the size of the peppers, they may take an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let cook slightly. Season with salt and pepper and top with the basil leaves before servings.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper or chili powder, NouBess Hot and Spicy Sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil. Just add a little more to compensate for the dried herb.
- You can use any type of olives you like in this recipe. I like to use a combination of black olives and green olives.
- This recipe is best to be prepared the day you will enjoy it. This will prevent the peppers from getting soggy when it is time for lunch or dinner.
- Choose a baking dish that will fit the peppers. Do not choose one that is too large.
- Serve as a meal or with a meat, seafood, or poultry dish.
Nutrition
Please keep in mind that nutritional information is a rough estimate and can vary greatly based on the products used.
Nutrition info is automatically generated and provided as a courtesy and as an estimate only.
