Discover a delightful twist on a classic dish with our Greek Orzo and Feta Stuffed Peppers! Bursting with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine tender bell peppers filled to the brim with a savory mix of orzo, creamy feta, and fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection. Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and elevate your culinary game with a taste of Greece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked orzo
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the oven is hot enough to cook the stuffed peppers evenly.
- Prepare the bell peppers by cutting the tops off and removing the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water and set them aside to drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to combine the flavors.
- Carefully spoon the orzo and feta mixture into each of the prepared bell peppers. Pack the filling lightly but ensure that each pepper is well-stuffed.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they are unstable, you can slice a small amount off the bottom to create a flat surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the peppers from drying out while they cook.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will allow the peppers to soften and the flavors to meld together.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to slightly brown the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Once cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Greek orzo and feta stuffed peppers warm, garnished with additional feta or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for firm, vibrant bell peppers for the best flavor and texture. Red, yellow, or orange peppers add a touch of sweetness, while green peppers offer a more robust taste.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the orzo mixture, such as cooked chicken, chickpeas, or different herbs like parsley or dill for an extra flavor boost.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first part of cooking helps retain moisture, ensuring that your peppers come out tender and juicy.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the peppers in the oven. You want them to be soft but not mushy, so adjust the baking time as needed based on your oven's performance.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional crumbled feta just before serving can elevate the presentation and add a burst of flavor.
- Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
