Summer mix

Summer Mix: Zucchini and Peppers Stuffed with Meat and Rice

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the wonderful world of stuffed vegetables! This recipe for zucchini and peppers stuffed with meat and rice is not only a delicious way to enjoy summer vegetables, but also an opportunity to bring a bit of magic into the kitchen. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result, and in the end, you will have a tasty, healthy, and colorful dish!

Ingredients:

- 2 medium zucchinis
- 2 bell peppers (preferably of different colors)
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 400g ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of rice
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato puree
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or sunflower oil, for cooking
- Fresh dill, for garnish (optional)

Brief history:
Stuffed vegetables have a long-standing tradition in many cultures, often symbolizing abundance and generosity. Depending on the available ingredients and regional preferences, you can find a variety of fillings, from meat to grains or vegetables. This recipe for zucchini and peppers stuffed with meat and rice is a simple and delicious option, perfect for warm summer days.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by washing the zucchinis and peppers well. Remove the flesh from the zucchinis using a spoon. If the zucchinis are larger, you can cut off the ends and then gently scoop out the insides, leaving about a 1 cm thick wall. This will create a perfect "container" for the filling. For the peppers, cut off the top and remove the seeds.

2. Preparing the filling:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, beaten egg, finely chopped onion, and the cup of rice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well until you get a homogeneous mixture. The rice will cook during boiling, absorbing the flavors from the meat and vegetables.

3. Stuffing the vegetables:
Using a spoon, fill the zucchinis and peppers with the meat and rice mixture. Do not fill the vegetables to the brim, as the rice will expand during cooking. Carefully place them in a large pot.

4. Preparing the sauce:
At the bottom of the pot, add a cup of oil and the flesh removed from the vegetables (zucchinis and tomatoes). This step will add extra flavor and prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Add the stuffed vegetables to the pot, and on top, place the bay leaves and two to three tablespoons of tomato puree. Add water until the vegetables are almost covered.

5. Boiling the vegetables:
Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour. It is important to occasionally check the water level and ensure the vegetables do not stick to the bottom of the pot. If necessary, you can add a little extra water.

6. Serving:
Once the vegetables are cooked and the filling is perfectly done, remove the pot from the heat. Let it cool slightly before taking them out. Serve them warm, drizzled with a little freshly chopped dill, which will add a touch of freshness.

Tips and variations:
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or pork, or opt for a vegetarian version using mushrooms or lentils.
- Add spices like cumin, paprika, or coriander for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer crunchier vegetables, you can bake the zucchinis and peppers before stuffing them for a different texture.

The perfect pairing:
This recipe for stuffed zucchini and peppers pairs perfectly with creamy yogurt or sour cream, which will add a touch of freshness and balance the flavors. You can also accompany this dish with a refreshing green salad and a glass of dry white wine, which will highlight the flavors of the vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables for stuffing?
Of course! You can use zucchinis, eggplants, or even potatoes, adapting the recipe according to your preferences.
2. How long can I keep the stuffed vegetables?
Stuffed vegetables can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed vegetables?
Yes, this is an excellent recipe for freezing. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in freezer bags.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken and rice. Additionally, fresh vegetables provide an important intake of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for summer meals. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Enjoy this recipe for stuffed zucchini and peppers and experiment with your favorite flavors! It's a perfect way to bring summer to your plate. Bon appétit!