There’s a special feeling that comes with preparing a dish that’s brimming with vibrant colors and bold flavors. The moment I cut into those little mini bell peppers, revealing their fresh, sweet interiors, I can barely contain my excitement for the Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers I’m about to make. This recipe isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful blend of creamy feta and rich sun-dried tomatoes that transforms simple ingredients into something truly gourmet.
I first discovered this creation during a sunny afternoon gathering, where appetizers were the star of the show. These bite-sized wonders quickly became the highlight, leaving my guests asking for seconds—and sometimes thirds! Perfect for dinners or as a party finger food, they bring a touch of the Mediterranean right to your table. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up in just 35 minutes, making them a go-to for anyone looking to elevate their home-cooked meals while leaving behind the fast food routine. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers
- These Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to whip them up in just 35 minutes.
- Their vibrant colors and charming presentation make them a visual feast that will impress your guests at any gathering.
- Versatile and adaptable, these stuffed peppers can be served as appetizers, side dishes, or even as a light meal on a warm day.
- They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, enticing everyone to come back for more of these delicious bites.
Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers Ingredients
• Get ready to make something special!
For the Peppers
- 12 mini bell peppers – these bite-sized beauties are the perfect vessel for your scrumptious stuffing.
For the Filling
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled – it adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the peppers.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened – this helps create a rich, luscious texture to the filling.
- 1/4 cup olives, chopped – briny and flavorful, olives bring a savory depth to your Mediterranean stuffed mini peppers.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – they add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for an extra layer of flavor; you can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – this simple spice elevates the overall taste without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot for baking. This temperature is perfect for achieving tender and flavorful stuffed peppers.
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Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise, gently removing the seeds. This creates lovely little pockets to hold all that cheesy goodness!
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Combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well until everything is creamy and evenly mixed, creating that delicious filling.
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Stuff each halved pepper generously with the cheese mixture, ensuring they’re filled to the brim with flavor. Don’t hold back—more filling means more yum!
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Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet, spreading them out evenly. This helps them cook thoroughly and ensures they don’t stick together.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly golden. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen starts to smell amazing!
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Cool the peppers slightly after removing them from the oven. This little pause makes them easier to handle and enhances their flavors before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sophistication.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish with minimal last-minute work! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix your feta, cream cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper, then fill the mini peppers. After stuffing, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This keeps them fresh and flavorful! When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes. You’ll have tasty, tender stuffed peppers that are just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers
Fridge: Store leftover Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed peppers unbaked for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: If cooked from frozen, bake directly in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until heated through. Enjoy this delicious flavor-packed appetizer anytime!
Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe and make it truly yours with these fun ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the feta and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cheese for a luscious, vegan-friendly version.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a flavorful heat that complements the creamy cheeses beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano into the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist that brings the Mediterranean essence to life.
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Quinoa Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa with the filling for added texture and a protein boost, making these mini peppers even more filling.
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Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the softness of the cheese.
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Mediterranean Medley: Swap olives for capers or add artichoke hearts for a more diverse flavor profile that enhances the overall experience.
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Roasted Red Peppers: Use roasted red peppers instead of mini bell peppers for a deeper, smoky flavor that elevates your dish with a unique twist.
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Sweet Surprise: Try adding a touch of honey or balsamic glaze drizzle post-baking for a sweet contrast that enhances the savory filling.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers?
These vibrant little delights are sure to steal the show at any meal, and pairing them with the right dishes can transform your dining experience.
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Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing salad packed with veggies complements the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread makes for a perfect dipping partner, soaking up any savory juices.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, creamy yogurt dip provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy peppers and enhances Mediterranean flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies adds an earthy balance, complementing the sweetness of the mini peppers. It’s a satisfying texture contrast too!
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Hummus and Pita: A creamy hummus paired with soft pita rounds out the Mediterranean theme and offers a delightful textural variety.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs nicely, enhancing the savory notes of the feta and olives while making it feel luxurious.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and zesty finish cleanses the palate, creating a pleasant end note to your meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate and offers a crisp freshness next to the rich stuffed peppers.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy filling that blends well with the feta.
- Be sure to remove all the seeds from the mini peppers, as even a few remaining seeds can make them taste bitter and disrupt the texture of each bite.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the olives in a pan for a few minutes before mixing them into the filling, enhancing their richness.
- Bake your stuffed peppers until they reach a tender texture at 375°F for precisely 20 minutes to ensure they are cooked through without losing their vibrant color and nutritional value.
Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting mini bell peppers?
Absolutely! When choosing mini bell peppers, pick ones that are firm, shiny, and without any dark spots. The skin should be smooth and vibrant in color, indicating freshness. If you can find peppers that are still a bit glossy, that’s a great sign they’re at their peak!
How should I store leftover Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers?
Very! To keep your leftovers fresh, simply place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes—this helps retain their delicious flavors and textures.
Can I freeze Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers?
Certainly! To freeze, I recommend wrapping each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can be frozen unbaked for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook them, just bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until they’re heated through. You won’t believe they were frozen!
What if my peppers are turning brown during baking?
If your mini peppers start to brown too quickly, it may be due to your oven’s temperature. Make sure to check your oven calibration and, if needed, lower the temperature slightly. You can also cover the dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking phase to protect them from direct heat until they are tender.
Are Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! These stuffed peppers are made with naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just ensure that any additional products (like cream cheese or olives) are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy these delicious bites worry-free!
Can my pet share these stuffed peppers?
While your furry friend might be curious, I wouldn’t recommend sharing them. The garlic and olives can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to stick to pet-safe treats when it comes to food sharing. Always keep an eye out for pet-friendly options!
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Peppers
- 12 pieces mini bell peppers these bite-sized beauties are the perfect vessel for your scrumptious stuffing.
For the Filling
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled it adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the peppers.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened this helps create a rich, luscious texture to the filling.
- 1/4 cup olives, chopped briny and flavorful, olives bring a savory depth.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped they add a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped fresh herbs brighten up the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper elevates the overall taste.
Instructions
How to Make Mediterranean Stuffed Mini Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise, gently removing the seeds.
- Combine feta cheese, cream cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well until creamy and mixed.
- Stuff each halved pepper generously with the cheese mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and slightly golden.
- Cool the peppers slightly before serving.
- Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
