Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and tender peppers that transport you to the heart of Tuscany. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or as a flavorful side dish, these stuffed peppers are easy to prepare and bursting with taste. You’ll love how they come together quickly and offer a satisfying meal option that everyone can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh herbs creates a rich and savory filling that’s hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these stuffed peppers as a main course or side dish; they complement various meals beautifully.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and herbs, these peppers are not only tasty but also healthy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding family, these stuffed peppers will impress everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Sharp knife
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting the peppers evenly without sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure a well-mixed filling.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for quickly wilting the spinach without using extra pots or pans.

Ingredients

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

For Topping

• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp oil

How to Make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise, removing seeds and ribs. Set them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush all over with olive oil.

Step 2: Bake the Peppers

Bake the prepared peppers in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Once finished, drain any excess water from each pepper and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers are baking, microwave the spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop it before transferring it to a large mixing bowl. Add all remaining filling ingredients into this bowl.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Using a spoon or spatula, fill each pepper evenly with the ricotta mixture you prepared.

Step 5: Add Topping

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown at this point, turn on the broiler for a minute or two—watch closely until they reach your desired level of browning!

Now you’re ready to serve up these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways to complement your meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that enhance their flavor and presentation.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the stuffed peppers as the main attraction on your dinner table, paired with a simple salad for a balanced meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy ricotta filling.

Accompanied by Bread

• Pair these peppers with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into any leftover filling or sauce.

Drizzled with Balsamic Glaze

• A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the stuffed peppers enhances their flavor profile, adding a sweet and tangy touch.

Garnished with Extra Herbs

• Top with additional fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic finish that invites the senses.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To ensure your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peppers: Select firm, vibrant bell peppers for optimal sweetness and flavor.
• Drain excess moisture: After baking, draining any water from the peppers prevents sogginess.
• Mix ingredients well: Ensure the ricotta filling is mixed thoroughly so every bite is flavorful.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the filling before stuffing to make sure it’s seasoned to your liking.
• Control baking time: Keep an eye on the peppers while baking; broil if needed for a golden-brown topping.
• Let them rest: Allow stuffed peppers to cool slightly before serving; this helps set the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to complete your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and extra nutrients to your plate. Toss them in olive oil and garlic before roasting for full flavor.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a healthy grain option that complements the peppers well.

3. Lentil Soup
   Serve a warm lentil soup on the side. Its hearty texture pairs beautifully with the creamy stuffed peppers.

4. Cauliflower Rice
   Light and low-carb, cauliflower rice can be seasoned and sautéed quickly for an easy side dish that doesn’t overshadow the main flavors.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory ricotta filling of the peppers.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a great counterpoint to the creamy texture of the stuffed peppers.

7. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice offers bright flavors that complement this Italian dish without overwhelming it.

8. Couscous Salad
   Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs, olives, and lemon zest makes for a light yet satisfying side that pairs well with rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Prebake: Not prebaking the peppers can lead to crunchy, undercooked veggies. Always bake them for about 20 minutes before stuffing.

• Overfilling the Peppers: Stuffing too much filling can cause it to overflow while baking. Aim for a generous yet manageable amount in each pepper.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can dull the flavor. Opt for fresh basil and parsley for the best taste.

• Forgetting to Drain: If you don’t drain excess water from the baked peppers, your dish may become soggy. Make sure to remove any liquid after prebaking.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheaper cheeses can affect texture and flavor. Choose high-quality ricotta and mozzarella for creamy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label containers with date for freshness tracking.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Keep frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C). Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth throughout.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth. Cover and heat the stuffed peppers for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that might help you out:

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

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different cheeses like goat cheese or feta to change up the flavor profile.

How do I make Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers vegan?

Substitute ricotta with tofu blended with nutritional yeast and add more herbs. Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs as a binder.

What can I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair well with a simple green salad or garlic bread, making for a delightful meal!

How long does it take to prepare Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, while cooking takes around 40 minutes, totaling about an hour from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste. This dish makes an excellent side or main course that your family will love!