Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not just a dish; they are an experience filled with rich flavors and comforting textures. Ideal for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or as a delightful side, these stuffed peppers bring the essence of Tuscany to your table. With creamy ricotta, vibrant herbs, and a crunchy topping, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, you can whip these up in under an hour. Perfect for busy evenings!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh herbs and creamy ricotta creates a mouthwatering filling that is both satisfying and delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main course or a side dish; they pair beautifully with salads or grilled meats.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and fresh herbs, these peppers are not only tasty but also healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a personalized touch!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers recipe, gather your tools for an easier cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even cooking space for the stuffed peppers while allowing them to brown perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the flavorful ingredients without making a mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Microwave: Quickly wilts spinach, saving you time during preparation.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need the following 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). While it heats up, prepare your bell peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise. Remove any seeds and ribs. Place the peppers cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil.

Step 2: Bake the Peppers

Bake your prepared peppers for about 20 minutes until they begin to soften. After that, drain any water that has collected in each pepper. Lower your oven temperature to 350°F (176°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers are baking, microwave the spinach for about 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop it before adding it to a large mixing bowl along with all other filling ingredients. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly fill each baked pepper half with your ricotta mixture. Make sure each pepper is generously packed.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake Again

In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper. Return them to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown yet, turn on the broiler for a minute or two—just keep an eye on them!

Enjoy your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. These stuffed peppers not only make a fantastic main dish but also complement a variety of sides and beverages, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a classic Italian touch.

Add a Grain Side

• Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with lemon juice and herbs complements the flavors of the peppers.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread on the side provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for dipping.

Serve with Dips

• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce offers a cool contrast to the warm stuffed peppers.
• Hummus: A flavorful hummus pairs well, adding creaminess and extra nutrition.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

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

• Bold seasoning: Don’t skimp on herbs and spices; they elevate the flavor of the ricotta filling significantly.
• Even baking: Make sure your bell peppers are cut evenly for consistent cooking throughout.
• Moisture control: Drain any excess water from baked peppers before stuffing to prevent sogginess.
• Egg binding: Using eggs helps bind the filling together, so it stays put during serving.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted with garlic adds color and nutrition.
2. Couscous Salad: Light couscous tossed with lemon zest and herbs creates a refreshing side.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Simply steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers elegance and crunch.
4. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These sweet-and-sour Brussels sprouts enhance the pepper’s flavors beautifully.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty accompaniment.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can impact the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unripe peppers: Choose ripe, fresh bell peppers for the best flavor. Unripe peppers can be bitter and less sweet.
• Not draining excess moisture: After baking, make sure to drain any water from the peppers. This prevents sogginess in your stuffed peppers.
• Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to fill the peppers to the brim, overstuffing can lead to spills during cooking. Fill them generously but leave a little space at the top.
• Ignoring seasoning: Taste your ricotta mixture before stuffing. Adjust salt and herbs as needed for a more flavorful filling.
• Skipping the broiler step: For that perfect golden brown topping, don’t skip broiling at the end. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the peppers to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (176°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of water, cover, and heat over medium until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers that you may find helpful.

Can I customize the filling for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables or substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers aren’t soggy?

Make sure to drain any liquid from the peppers after baking and don’t overstuff them with filling.

What can I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

They pair well with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!