Stuffed peppers and zucchini

Delicious stuffed peppers and zucchini recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Introduction

Stuffed peppers and zucchini are a classic dish, full of flavor, that reminds us of family meals and moments spent together at the table. This recipe, simple yet full of taste, combines juicy meat with fluffy rice, and the flavors blend perfectly to create a dish that will delight all the senses. Whether you choose to serve this main course at a special dinner or just to bring a touch of joy to ordinary days, the stuffed peppers and zucchini recipe will surely be appreciated.

A touch of history

This recipe is part of the culinary tradition of many cultures, each having its own variations and preferred ingredients. It is said that filling vegetables with meat and grains was an ingenious way to make the most of food and create nourishing meals. Stuffed peppers and zucchini are not only delicious but also a perfect way to add vegetables to our diet.

Ingredients

- 500 g pork (can be replaced with beef if preferred)
- 500 g boneless chicken breast
- 500 g smoked bacon (for a more intense flavor)
- 150 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 2 large onions
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 100 ml oil (olive oil can be a healthy choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Peppers and zucchini (about 6-8 peppers and 2-3 medium zucchinis, depending on the desired size)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Meat: Choose fresh, quality meat. Pork provides a rich flavor, while chicken breast adds a note of juiciness. If you choose to use beef, make sure to chop it finely to combine better with the other ingredients.

2. Bacon: Adding smoked bacon not only enriches the aroma of the mixture but also provides an interesting texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the bacon.

3. Rice: It is essential to choose quality rice. Long-grain rice will absorb the flavors well and maintain a pleasant texture after cooking.

4. Onion: Choose fresh, firm onions. The onion will add sweetness and balance the intense flavors of the meat and bacon.

Preparation method

1. Preparing the mixture: Start by chopping the pork, chicken breast, and bacon using a meat grinder. You can also use a food processor, but be careful not to chop it too finely. Pour the minced meat into a large bowl.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden and transparent, about 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the onion's aroma and enrich the mixture.

3. Adding the tomato paste: Once the onion is sautéed, add the tomato paste and mix well. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes for the flavors to combine.

4. Combining the ingredients: Pour the onion and tomato mixture over the minced meat. Add the rice, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well until combined.

5. Filling the vegetables: Wash the peppers and zucchinis well. Carefully cut off the tops of the peppers and remove the seeds, while the zucchinis can be halved and seeded. Fill each pepper and zucchini with the prepared mixture, being careful not to overfill them, as the rice will expand during cooking.

6. Cooking: Place the stuffed peppers and zucchinis in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. You can add a splash of water to the dish to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 180°C for about 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and leave in the oven for another 15-20 minutes to brown.

Serving suggestions

Stuffed peppers and zucchinis can be served warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce for a pleasant contrast. You can also add a slice of fresh bread to complete the meal. Due to the intense flavors, a glass of light white or red wine will truly work wonders.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the meat and contains carbohydrates from the rice, making it a balanced meal. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals for a healthy diet. Additionally, the dish is relatively low in calories, having about 350-400 kcal per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations

If you want to try something different, you can add spices like thyme, dill, or sweet paprika to slightly change the flavor profile. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as eggplants or tomatoes, which can be stuffed similarly.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or lamb, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Stuffed peppers and zucchinis can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze the dish?
Yes, they can be frozen, but it is recommended to let them cool completely before freezing.

In conclusion, stuffed peppers and zucchinis represent an excellent choice for a delicious and nourishing meal. With this recipe, you will bring to your table a piece of culinary tradition, full of love and flavor. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent in the kitchen!