Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Tuscany right to your table. With creamy ricotta and fresh herbs, these stuffed peppers are not just delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, they are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour with minimal hands-on time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, spinach, and herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as a main or side dish; great for any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the peppers and spinach while being high in protein.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or vegetables for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl for topping
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and easy transfer of peppers to the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all filling ingredients thoroughly.

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 the 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 and remove the seeds and ribs. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush them with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they start to soften. Once done, drain any excess water from each pepper and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers are baking, microwave the spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop it, then combine it in a large mixing bowl with all other filling ingredients.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly fill each pepper with the ricotta mixture you prepared.

Step 4: Add Topping

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

Step 5: Bake Again

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown on top at that point, turn on the broiler and watch closely until they’re perfectly browned—this should only take a minute or two!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to enhance your meal. Whether you want to keep it simple or add more flair, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the peppers as a hearty main course. Pair them with a light salad for a balanced meal.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad complements the creamy filling of the peppers. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread provides perfect crunch and flavor. It’s an excellent addition that pairs well with the Italian theme of the dish.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle some extra mozzarella or parmesan on top before baking for an even richer flavor.

With Homemade Marinara Sauce

• Serve the stuffed peppers over homemade or store-bought marinara sauce for added moisture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Pairing your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, this dish adds protein and is great for soaking up flavors from the stuffed peppers.
3. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that provides a lovely texture alongside the rich ricotta filling.
4. Couscous with Lemon Zest: Fluffy couscous infused with lemon adds brightness to balance the creaminess of the peppers.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes create a refreshing contrast to the warm stuffed peppers.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil offers crunch without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Boldly Overfilling: Stuffing the peppers too much can lead to spillage during baking. Fill them generously but leave a little space at the top.
• Skipping Pre-Baking: Neglecting to pre-bake the peppers can result in crunchy skins. Always bake them for about 20 minutes before stuffing to ensure they soften.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your ricotta mixture can make the dish bland. Taste as you mix, adding herbs and spices as needed for flavor.
• Using Stale Breadcrumbs: Using old breadcrumbs can affect texture and taste. Always use fresh breadcrumbs for a crisp topping.
• Not Monitoring Broiling: Leaving the broiler unattended can quickly burn your toppings. Keep a close eye during this final step for perfect browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Allow stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and cover with a lid. Steam each pepper for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors.

How do I make these stuffed peppers vegan?

To make vegan Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, substitute ricotta with tofu mixed with nutritional yeast and add more vegetables.

Can I prepare Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff the peppers the night before and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What vegetables pair well with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Zucchini, mushrooms, or even artichokes can be added to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I ensure my ricotta filling is creamy?

Using fresh ricotta cheese and mixing it thoroughly with eggs will help achieve that creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent side dish or main course that can be easily customized. Feel free to add different herbs or vegetables based on your preferences!