Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delightful but also brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, you’ll love these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s so easy to make and bursts with vibrant flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress everyone around the table.

What I adore about this recipe is how it combines creamy ricotta and fresh herbs into a colorful presentation. They’re not just beautiful; they’re packed with nutrients and taste. Plus, they come together in under an hour, making them a perfect choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just about an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready to share.
• Family-Friendly: These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and herbs, this dish offers nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers before baking for an even quicker dinner.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize with your favorite herbs or veggies for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers so special! You probably already have many of these items on hand, making this recipe even more convenient.

For the Peppers

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (15 mL)

For the Filling

• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 15-oz tub ricotta cheese (425 g)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan (56 g)
• ½ cup sliced green onions (about 4 green onions)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 handful chopped flat-leaf parsley (aka Italian parsley)
• 1 tsp each dried rosemary, dried thyme, fennel seed, and salt (roughly smash the fennel seeds to release their flavor)
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers based on what you have or prefer:

• Swap the protein: Add cooked quinoa or lentils for a heartier filling that’s still vegetarian-friendly.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some finely diced zucchini or mushrooms into the ricotta mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a different taste experience.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños if you like a little heat in your dish!

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and ribs. This step is essential as it creates space for our delicious filling! Place the peppers cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them all over with olive oil. Bake them for about 20 minutes until they begin to soften. Once they’re done, drain any excess water from inside each pepper and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While the peppers are baking, microwave your spinach for about 15-30 seconds until wilted. Then chop it roughly. In a large bowl, combine the spinach with all remaining filling ingredients. Mixing everything together ensures that all those delightful flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Fill each pepper evenly with your flavorful ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy—pack them well so every bite is delicious!

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil. This will create a lovely crispy topping when baked! Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Return your stuffed peppers to the oven and bake them for about 30 minutes. If you notice that they aren’t golden brown yet, turn on the broiler briefly—just keep an eye on them as it won’t take more than a minute or two!

And there you have it—your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm as a main dish or as an exciting side at your next meal. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about attention to detail and a few helpful tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and texture.

• Choose ripe peppers: Selecting vibrant, firm bell peppers not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall flavor. Look for peppers that are heavy for their size and free of blemishes.

• Sauté spinach first: While microwaving is quick, sautéing the spinach in a pan with a touch of olive oil allows for deeper flavor development. This step also helps to eliminate excess moisture, ensuring your filling stays creamy and not watery.

• Mix cheeses well: For the best flavor distribution, ensure that you thoroughly mix the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan together. This way, each bite will be equally cheesy and delicious!

• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to swap in or add other fresh herbs like dill or oregano based on your taste preferences. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further, adding an aromatic bouquet that complements the ricotta beautifully.

• Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing the stuffed peppers to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps them hold their shape when you serve them. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to meld together even more!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not just delicious; they’re visually stunning too! Presenting them beautifully can make mealtime feel special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves placed on top add a pop of color and freshness.
• Drizzle of balsamic glaze: A light drizzle over the tops introduces a sweet acidity that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Chopped parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley adds brightness and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover filling or sauce.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, providing a light contrast to the rich stuffed peppers.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant bring additional texture and flavor while complementing the herbaceous notes in the peppers.
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar offers a crisp counterpoint to the creamy filling.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers will not only taste amazing but also look stunning at your table. Enjoy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish throughout the week. You can easily prepare them in advance and store them for later meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the stuffed peppers completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffed peppers in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure they are hot throughout.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use different types of cheese in Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile while keeping the ricotta as a base.

How can I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegan?

You can substitute the ricotta with a plant-based alternative made from nuts or tofu. Additionally, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to bind the filling together.

What herbs work best in Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme complement the ricotta beautifully. You can also try adding oregano or dill for an extra layer of flavor!

How do I ensure my peppers are tender when making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Pre-baking the bell peppers helps soften them before stuffing. Make sure to bake them until they just start to soften for that perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers brings joy to your kitchen and delicious flavors to your table! Whether enjoyed as a delightful side dish or a main course, these peppers are sure to impress. I encourage you to try making them yourself—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!