Mini stuffed peppers with cheese

Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cheese: A Flavorful and Colorful Delight

Looking for a simple and quick recipe for an appetizer that will delight the eyes and taste buds? Stuffed mini peppers with cheese are the perfect choice! This easy-to-make recipe not only looks appealing but also tastes exceptional, thanks to the combination of cottage cheese, telemea, and other fresh ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to add a touch of creativity to your table.

A Bit of History

Stuffed peppers have a long-standing tradition in many cultures' cuisines, symbolizing hospitality and family meals. Stuffed mini peppers with cheese are a modern and more convenient version, perfect for parties or gatherings with friends. This recipe combines the flavors of cheese with the sweetness of the peppers, creating a dish that will surely catch everyone’s attention.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 kg mini peppers (choose colorful ones for a vibrant look)
- 300 g cottage cheese
- 100 g telemea cheese (fine grated)
- 100 g cheese (grated or cubed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of green onions (finely chopped)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill (finely chopped)
- 2 boiled eggs (grated)
- 100 g butter (softened, at room temperature)
- 100 g olives (optional, for a delicious variation)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese with the grated telemea and cheese. These cheeses will provide a creamy texture to the filling, while the telemea adds a salty note. Add the softened butter and mix well until it becomes a smooth paste.
Practical Tip: Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it can easily incorporate into the mixture.

2. Add Aromatic Ingredients
Next, add the sour cream, grated boiled eggs, chopped green onions, and dill. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Variation: If you want a more intense flavor, add a few chopped green or black olives directly into the mixture.

3. Seasoning
Adjust the filling with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to taste the mixture, as the cheeses can vary in saltiness.
Frequently Asked Question: If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or cottage cheese.

4. Prepare the Peppers
Remove the stems and seeds from the mini peppers, then wash them well under cold water. Let them drain in a colander or on a paper towel.
Tip: Choose peppers of similar sizes for even baking.

5. Stuff the Peppers
Using a teaspoon, fill each pepper with the cheese mixture. Don’t overfill, as the filling will expand during baking.
Variation: You can garnish the peppers with strips of dill or thin slices of tomatoes on top.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, greased with a little butter or oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until they turn golden and their aroma fills the room.
Tip: You can cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 10 minutes to keep them juicy.

7. Serving
Once the peppers are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them perfect for summer meals or parties.
Suggestion: Serve them alongside a fresh green salad and a yogurt-dill sauce for a delicious combination.

Nutritional Benefits

These stuffed mini peppers with cheese are not only delicious but also healthy. Peppers are rich in vitamin C, while the cheeses provide a good source of protein and calcium. Eating colorful vegetables contributes to a balanced diet, having positive effects on health.

Estimated Calories (per serving): 150-200

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with feta or mozzarella to add different flavors.

2. How can I store the stuffed peppers?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them before serving.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?
Yes, it’s recommended to freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container.

Recommended Recipes and Drinks

To complement the meal, try serving these stuffed mini peppers with a refreshing white wine or a fruit cocktail. They can also be accompanied by bruschetta with tomatoes and basil for a varied appetizer.

Don’t forget to share your impressions and adapt the recipe to your liking! Cooking is an art, and every detail can make a difference. Enrich your culinary experience and enjoy the delights offered by this simple yet refined dish!