Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers

Introduction

Embrace the flavours of the Mediterranean with this easy-to-make and undeniably delicious stuffed peppers recipe. Perfect for air frying, these stuffed peppers retain all their juicy goodness while acquiring a wonderful roasted finish. Ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers (any colour, preferably a mix)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
  • 200 grams feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation of Stuffed Peppers

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
  2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Retain the tops.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa or rice, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to blend the ingredients.
  4. Fill each bell pepper with the mixture, pressing down gently to ensure they are well packed. Place the tops back on each pepper.
  5. Lightly brush the outside of each stuffed pepper with a bit of olive oil to allow for a nice roasted finish.
  6. Place the peppers upright in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook them in batches.
  7. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly charred. Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer's specifications.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Stuffed Peppers in Air Fryer

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This Mediterranean stuffed peppers recipe is not only bursting with flavours but is also packed with nutrients. The combination of quinoa (or rice) and feta provides a delightful texture contrast, while the olives and oregano add a classic Mediterranean taste. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means you get a lovely roasted flavour with less oil and in less time than traditional oven baking.

Tips and Variations

  • Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas to the stuffing mixture.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Vegan Option: Skip the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean stuffed peppers recipe is a versatile and flavourful dish that you can easily adapt to suit your taste preferences. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal-prep option for the week, these peppers are as nutritious as they are delectable. So fire up your air fryer and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.