Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that brings the essence of Tuscany right to your kitchen. With a creamy ricotta filling infused with fresh herbs, they serve as a perfect side or main dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout choice for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: These stuffed peppers can be ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
• Packed with Flavor: The blend of ricotta, parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course; they’re great for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: With spinach and fresh herbs, these peppers are nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers right before baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace for success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Microwave
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your peppers for consistent cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining all filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Knife and cutting board: Important for safely preparing your vegetables.

Ingredients

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers taste straight out of Tuscany with fresh herbs, creamy ricotta, and sharp parmesan. Ready in under an hour (with minimal hands-on time), they’re a simple side dish that packs a punch of flavor.

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
• 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 bell peppers in half lengthwise, removing seeds and ribs. Set peppers cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them all over with olive oil.

Step 2: Bake the Peppers

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

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Meanwhile, microwave the spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted down. Roughly chop it, then combine it in a large bowl with all remaining filling ingredients.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly fill each pepper with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or spatula.

Step 5: Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 Tbsp of oil. Sprinkle this topping evenly over each stuffed pepper.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return the peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown at this point, turn on the broiler while watching closely until they’re browned perfectly—this should take no more than one or two minutes!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in various ways. Consider these suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.

With a Side Salad

• A mixed greens salad adds crunch and freshness.
• A Caesar salad complements the creamy filling beautifully.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare extra peppers and store them in the fridge for easy lunches.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal option.

At a Potluck

• Cut peppers into smaller pieces for easy sharing.
• Arrange on a platter with toothpicks for fun, bite-sized portions.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Perfecting your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and parsley will give you vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Choose ripe peppers: Select firm, brightly colored bell peppers for the best taste and texture.
• Don’t overfill: Leave some space in the peppers to allow the filling to expand while baking.
• Let them rest: Allow stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking, which helps set the filling.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To complement your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for mopping up creamy ricotta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add color and nutrition; try zucchini or asparagus.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and texture, balancing the richness of the peppers.
4. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil provide a classic Italian pairing.
5. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables tossed with pasta create a hearty accompaniment.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a summer twist and pairs well with Italian flavors.
7. Ratatouille: This vegetable medley offers robust flavors that complement the stuffed peppers wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the prep: Ensure you preheat your oven and prepare your peppers properly. This sets the stage for a perfectly cooked dish.
• Overfilling the peppers: While it’s tempting to stuff them full, too much filling can cause spills during baking. Fill them generously but not excessively.
• Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ricotta mixture well. A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavor, so taste as you go!
• Not draining excess moisture: After baking, make sure to drain any water from the peppers. This prevents sogginess and keeps the texture just right.
• Rushing the baking time: Allowing enough time in the oven is crucial for getting that perfect golden brown top. Keep an eye on them towards the end!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Cover with foil and reheat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water and covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like feta or goat cheese into your filling for added flavor.

How do I customize my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

You can add vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini, or even ground meat if you prefer a heartier meal.

What should I serve with these stuffed peppers?

They pair beautifully with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers up to a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them based on what’s available or your personal preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these flavorful bites that bring a taste of Tuscany right to your kitchen!