Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers bring a taste of Tuscany right to your kitchen. With their vibrant colors and fresh flavors, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The creamy ricotta mixed with aromatic herbs creates an unforgettable dish that can be served as a main course or a delightful side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs and cheeses creates a rich and savory filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile: Enjoy these stuffed peppers as a hearty side or make them the star of your meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and herbs, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe dish
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting the peppers evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the filling ingredients without spilling.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and preparing the peppers.

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 each bell pepper in half lengthwise, removing seeds and ribs. Place them cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush all over with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes 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 bake, microwave the spinach in a microwave-safe dish for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop the spinach. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wilted spinach with all remaining filling ingredients: ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, green onions, basil, parsley, dried rosemary, thyme, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and eggs.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper half evenly with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or spatula until they are generously packed.

Step 4: Add Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of oil until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over each stuffed pepper.

Step 5: Bake Again

Return stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes. If they aren’t golden brown after this time, turn on the broiler for just a minute or two—watch closely so they don’t burn!

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal for one, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve these stuffed peppers as a hearty main dish accompanied by a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a crisp green salad topped with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Place the stuffed peppers on a bed of fluffy quinoa. This adds texture and makes the meal more filling.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley before serving to elevate the presentation and flavor.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavors significantly, making your dish taste vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust Cheese Levels: Feel free to mix different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavors and textures.
• Pre-bake Peppers: Baking the peppers before stuffing allows them to soften without overcooking the filling, ensuring everything is perfectly cooked.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning! Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences for an impactful flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh garlic for an extra kick of flavor.
• Let Cool Before Serving: Allowing the peppers to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the filling, making them easier to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances both flavor and nutrition.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic choice that adds crunch and creaminess, balancing out the rich filling of the peppers.
4. Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup provides protein and fiber, making it a wholesome pairing with stuffed peppers.
5. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs creates a refreshing side that complements the hearty peppers.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, steamed asparagus adds color and health benefits to your meal while keeping it light.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, which brightens up the dish nicely.
8. Grilled Zucchini: Tender grilled zucchini slices add smokiness that matches well with the herby flavors of the stuffed peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers even more delicious. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Pre-baking: Not pre-baking the peppers can lead to a crunchy texture that doesn’t pair well with the creamy filling. Always bake them for about 20 minutes to soften.

• Overstuffing the Peppers: Stuffing too much filling can cause the peppers to burst while baking. Fill them generously but leave some space at the top for expansion.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Mixing cold ricotta or eggs can affect the consistency of your filling. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother mixture.

• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each herb has its own strength. Taste your filling before stuffing to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly according to your preference.

• Not Using Fresh Herbs: Substituting dried herbs for fresh ones will alter the flavor profile significantly. Stick with fresh basil and parsley for a vibrant taste.

• Rushing the Baking Time: Not allowing enough time in the oven may result in undercooked peppers. Bake until they’re golden brown and cooked through for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (176°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes, removing foil for the last five minutes.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes until hot throughout.

• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are bell peppers filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, and spices, then baked until tender.

Can I customize my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or proteins like cooked chicken or beef. Experimenting with various herbs can also change up the flavor profile.

How do I know when my stuffed peppers are done?

Your Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are done when they are soft and golden brown on top. A fork should easily pierce through the pepper skin.

Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them in advance and store them in the fridge. Bake just before serving for fresh, hot flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers offer a delightful mix of flavors that evoke the essence of Italian cuisine. They’re not only easy to prepare but also versatile—perfect as a main dish or side. Feel free to customize them with your favorite herbs or vegetables!