Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? These Greek stuffed peppers are both flavorful and easy to make. Packed with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, veggies, and herbs, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you want to impress guests or treat your family, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step guide to create your new favorite meal!

Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Greek Stuffed Peppers
For Greek stuffed peppers, you need fresh and vibrant ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color you like)
– 1 cup quinoa, well-rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small red onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and coarsely chopped
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
These ingredients create a tasty, colorful dish. The quinoa acts as a base, while the olives and feta add rich flavors.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can mix it up! Here are some optional ingredients to customize your stuffed peppers:
– Cooked ground meat (like lamb or beef)
– Different grains (like rice or couscous)
– Other cheeses (like mozzarella or goat cheese)
– Spicy pepper flakes for heat
– Fresh herbs like dill or mint for a twist
Feel free to experiment with these options to make the dish your own.
Nutritional Information Overview
Greek stuffed peppers are healthy and filling. Here’s a quick look at their nutrition:
– Calories: About 350 per serving
– Protein: 12g from quinoa and feta
– Fiber: 5g from vegetables and grains
– Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C from bell peppers and tomatoes
– Healthy Fats: Olive oil and feta provide heart-healthy fats
This dish not only tastes great but also offers good nutrition. Enjoy these flavors while knowing they are good for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Peppers
First, I wash and dry the bell peppers. I choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, or green. Next, I slice off the tops of each pepper and remove the seeds. This part is simple but important. I brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps them shine. Then, I place them upside down in a baking dish. This keeps them stable for stuffing.
Cooking the Quinoa
I cook the quinoa next. I take a medium saucepan and combine 1 cup of rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth. I bring this to a gentle simmer. Once it simmers, I cover the pot and cook for about 15 minutes. The quinoa is done when it is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed. I remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool.
Making the Filling
In a large skillet, I heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. I add 1 small, finely diced red onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. I cook this for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. Then, I stir in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of roughly chopped baby spinach. I let the spinach wilt for around 2 minutes. After that, I gently fold in the cooked quinoa. I also add 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped Kalamata olives, 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. I sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. I mix everything well so each bite is packed with flavor.
Now, I stuff each pepper generously with the quinoa mixture, packing it tightly. I pour about 1/4 cup of vegetable broth into the bottom of the baking dish. This keeps the peppers moist while baking. I cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. I bake the peppers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. If I want a golden color, I remove the foil for the last 10 minutes. After baking, I let them cool slightly and then garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Stuffing Peppers
To get the best results, always choose firm, fresh peppers. I like to use colorful bell peppers for a vibrant dish. Cut off the tops and remove the seeds carefully. Brush the outside with olive oil. This adds flavor and makes them shine. Pack the filling tightly to avoid gaps. This keeps the filling in place and helps the peppers cook evenly.
Cooking Time Adjustments
You may need to adjust the cooking time based on your oven. If your peppers are large, they may take longer. Check them after 30 minutes. If they are not tender, bake for an extra 5 to 10 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to get a nice color. Always keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Additional Flavor Boosters
Want to kick up the flavor? Add more spices like paprika or chili flakes. Fresh herbs like basil or dill can also enhance the taste. Squeeze some lemon juice for a fresh twist. You can even mix in some cooked meat or beans for extra protein. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can easily make Greek stuffed peppers vegetarian or vegan. For a vegetarian option, simply keep the feta cheese. To make them vegan, swap the feta with a vegan cheese. You can also use cooked lentils or chickpeas instead of quinoa. These beans add protein and fiber. Toss in extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
Meat Lovers’ Twist
If you love meat, add ground beef or lamb to the filling. Cook the meat with the onions and garlic until browned. Then, mix it with the quinoa, tomatoes, and olives. This twist gives a hearty flavor to the dish. You can also top the peppers with more feta or cheese for a richer taste.
Choosing Different Grains or Cheeses
Quinoa is great, but you can try other grains too. Brown rice, couscous, or farro work well. Each grain gives a different texture. For cheese, mozzarella or goat cheese can be delicious substitutes. These options let you play with flavors and find what you love best. Mix and match to create your perfect stuffed pepper!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your Greek stuffed peppers in the fridge for up to four days. Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before you seal them up. This helps prevent moisture build-up that can make them soggy.
Freezing Greek Stuffed Peppers
You can freeze Greek stuffed peppers for up to three months. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. When you’re ready to eat, just take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 20 minutes. If they seem dry, add a splash of vegetable broth to keep them moist. You can also use the microwave. Just place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes until hot.
FAQs
How to make stuffed peppers without quinoa?
You can use rice or couscous instead of quinoa. Cook the rice or couscous first. Mix it with veggies and spices as you would with quinoa. This gives you a tasty filling that still feels hearty.
Can I use other types of peppers?
Absolutely! Bell peppers are great, but you can also use poblano or banana peppers. Each type adds a unique flavor. If you like spice, choose jalapeños for a kick.
What are some side dishes to serve with Greek stuffed peppers?
Serve Greek stuffed peppers with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Greek yogurt also pairs well for a creamy touch. You can add pita bread or hummus for a complete meal.
Greek stuffed peppers are a tasty dish you can make with key ingredients like quinoa, veggies, and herbs. You can customize them with options for your taste. Follow simple steps for prep and cooking, plus tips to make them perfect.
These stuffed peppers can fit any diet, whether vegetarian, vegan, or meaty. Store leftovers easily by following clear guidelines. Ultimately, stuffed peppers are fun to make and enjoy. Try these ideas, and you’ll love how simple and delicious they can be.
