Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers

Rick Stein’s Stuffed Peppers is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines sweet bell peppers with a flavorful filling of rice, herbs, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed peppers are both hearty and healthy. With their colorful presentation and satisfying flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite at your table.

What are Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers?

Rick Stein’s Stuffed Peppers is a Mediterranean-inspired dish where bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of rice, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Baked until tender, the peppers become a vessel for a delicious, wholesome filling.

Other Yummy Recipes

• Rick Stein Dauphinoise Potatoes
• Rick Stein Devilled Kidneys
• Rick Stein Hake Butter Beans

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with vegetables, rice, and herbs for a nutritious meal.
• Versatile Dish: Can be served as a main course or a side.
• Customizable Filling: Easily adaptable with different ingredients or proteins.
• Beautiful Presentation: Vibrant peppers make for an eye-catching dish.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients Needed for Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers

• Bell peppers: 4 large (any color), tops removed and seeds scooped out
• Cooked rice: 200g (1 cup), for the filling
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves: 2, minced
• Tomatoes: 2 large, finely chopped
• Zucchini (courgette): 1 small, diced
• Feta cheese: 100g, crumbled
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking
• Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh basil: 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Breadcrumbs: 2 tablespoons, for topping
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons, for topping (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowl
• Frying pan
• Spoon

Instructions to Make Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the peppers: Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds, and hollow out the cavities. Place them upright in the baking dish.
3. Cook the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the diced zucchini and tomatoes, cooking until slightly softened.
4. Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, crumbled feta, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
5. Fill the peppers: Spoon the rice mixture into the hollowed-out peppers, pressing down gently to fill them completely.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and cheese: Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy topping.
7. Bake the peppers: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve hot: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or basil.

What to Serve With Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the peppers.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices in the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted carrots or zucchini complements the dish beautifully.
• Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt adds a cooling contrast.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Peppers

• Choose firm peppers: They hold their shape better during baking.
• Pre-cook the peppers: Briefly blanch or microwave them for a softer texture.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the filling before stuffing to ensure it’s well seasoned.
• Experiment with grains: Swap rice with quinoa, couscous, or bulgur for variety.
• Add protein: Include cooked ground beef, chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier option.
• Bake covered initially: Helps the peppers cook evenly without drying out.

What are the Variations of Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers?

• Meaty version: Add cooked minced beef, lamb, or turkey to the filling.
• Vegan option: Skip the cheese and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Spicy twist: Include chopped chili or a dash of cayenne for heat.
• Mediterranean style: Add olives and sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

How Do I Store Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers?

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap each stuffed pepper individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How Do I Reheat Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers?

• In the oven: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• In the microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, covered.
• On the stovetop: Warm in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water.

How Can I Make Rick Stein Stuffed Peppers Healthier?

• Use brown rice: Swap white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
• Reduce cheese: Use less cheese or opt for low-fat varieties.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate spinach, carrots, or mushrooms into the filling.
• Use less oil: Cook the vegetables with minimal oil to cut calories.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g

Final Words

Rick Stein’s Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.

Perfect for vegetarians and easily adaptable, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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• Nigel Slater Salmon Fish Cakes

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