Cottage Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cottage Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

If you’re looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal that showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of the Mediterranean, then look no further than these Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cottage Cheese. This recipe takes the traditional stuffed peppers and elevates them with a combination of cottage cheese, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs. Bursting with Mediterranean goodness, these stuffed bell peppers are a perfect option for a wholesome lunch or dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/4 cup pitted and chopped Kalamata olives
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers, remove the seeds and membranes, and give them a good rinse. Set the peppers aside and move on to preparing the stuffing.

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa or rice, cottage cheese, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Stuffing and Baking

With the stuffing ready, it’s time to stuff the bell peppers. Take a spoon and gently press the cottage cheese mixture into each bell pepper, ensuring they are filled to the brim. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the peppers bake for 20 minutes. After this initial baking period, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the peppers to become tender and develop a beautiful golden color.

Final Touches and Serving

Once the peppers are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This cooling period ensures that the flavors meld together, creating a delightful taste sensation.

Serve the Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cottage Cheese warm as a main dish or alongside a refreshing salad and some crusty bread. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, tangy feta, and the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and olives will surely delight your taste buds.

Customizations and Tips

While this recipe is already bursting with Mediterranean goodness, you can always add your personal touch. Consider incorporating additional ingredients such as diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch, chopped fresh mint for a burst of freshness, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

If you’re looking to add a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, ground turkey, or even chickpeas to the stuffing mixture. This will not only make the dish heartier but also provide a well-rounded meal.

Finally

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cottage Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it offers a taste of the Mediterranean right in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a cheese lover, or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and indulge in this Mediterranean culinary delight. Bon appétit!