Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

These Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are a delightful dish that brings the essence of Tuscany straight to your kitchen. Bursting with fresh herbs and creamy ricotta, these stuffed peppers are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a hearty side dish, they offer a unique blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal hands-on time, you can have these delicious stuffed peppers ready in under an hour.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy ricotta, sharp parmesan, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering filling.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as a main course or a side dish; they fit perfectly into any meal plan.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and herbs, these peppers are both nutritious and satisfying.
• Vegetarian Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians while still being hearty enough to please everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Microwave
• Sharp knife
• Spoon for stuffing

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents spills in the oven.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife helps you cut the bell peppers cleanly for easy stuffing.

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

Step 2: Bake the Peppers

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

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the peppers bake, microwave the spinach for 15 to 30 seconds until wilted. Roughly chop it before combining it in a large bowl with all remaining filling ingredients.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly fill each pepper with the ricotta mixture prepared earlier.

Step 5: Add Topping

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

Step 6: Final Bake

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. If needed, turn on the broiler at this point to brown the tops until golden—watch closely as this process takes just one or two minutes!

How to Serve Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want them as a main course or a side dish, these peppers can fit into any meal beautifully.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

With a Side Salad

• A simple arugula salad adds peppery notes that complement the richness of the filling.
• Top with cherry tomatoes and balsamic dressing for brightness.

Perfect for Meal Prep

• Make a batch ahead of time and store in the fridge, reheating when ready to eat.
• Freeze individually for quick lunches or dinners on busy nights.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add extra chopped basil or parsley on top before serving for added freshness.
• A drizzle of olive oil enhances flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose ripe peppers: Select firm, colorful bell peppers for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Season your filling: Don’t skip seasoning! Adjust salt and pepper to taste before stuffing.
• Avoid soggy bottoms: Drain any excess moisture from the baked peppers before filling them to prevent sogginess.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mix in different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for varied flavors.
• Broil for crunch: Finish under the broiler for a minute or two to achieve golden, crispy tops.

Best Side Dishes for Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

To round out your meal featuring Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, consider these delicious side dishes. They enhance the overall dining experience while keeping it simple.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread infused with garlic complements the stuffed peppers perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make a refreshing counterpoint to the rich filling.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds texture and flavor variety.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutty quinoa mixed with diced veggies provides a nutritious balance.
5. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish full of fresh vegetables brings an Italian flair to your table.
6. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with lemon zest pairs well with the herby notes of the stuffed peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes you should watch out for:

• Skipping the Pre-bake: Not pre-baking the peppers can result in crunchy, undercooked veggies. Always bake them for 20 minutes to soften before filling.

• Overstuffing the Peppers: Stuffing too much filling can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Fill them generously but leave a little space at the top.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your ricotta mixture can make the dish bland. Use fresh herbs and spices liberally for maximum flavor.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Using cold ricotta or eggs can lead to an uneven mixture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

• Not Topping with Breadcrumbs: Skipping the breadcrumb topping means missing out on a delightful crunch. Don’t forget this step for added texture!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days for best flavor.

Freezing Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (176°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking often to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a lid on low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers:

Can I use different types of peppers?

You can absolutely use different types of bell peppers or even other varieties like poblano or jalapeño for a spicy kick!

How do I customize my Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or mix in different cheeses based on your preference.

Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to a day in advance, just store them in the fridge before baking.

What should I serve with Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

Final Thoughts

Herby Ricotta Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily tailor them to fit your tastes by switching out herbs or adding extra veggies. Give this recipe a try – it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!