Welcome to this delightful and easy-to-make recipe guide for Ratatouille Stuffed Bell Peppers. Perfectly suited for air frying, this recipe captures the essence of traditional French Provencal cuisine while adding a modern twist that fits right into a busy lifestyle. It's a versatile dish that is both wholesome and visually appealing, making it an ideal choice for any meal, whether it's a casual family dinner or a sophisticated dinner party.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, assorted colours
- 1 medium aubergine (eggplant), diced
- 1 medium courgette (zucchini), diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated parmesan or vegan cheese for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bell Peppers
Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
2. Cook the Ratatouille Filling
In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they're soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the diced aubergine, courgette, and tomatoes to the pan. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cook the mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavours have melded together. Adjust seasoning to your taste preference.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the ratatouille mixture into each of the prepared bell peppers, pressing down gently to ensure they're well-stuffed. If desired, sprinkle grated parmesan or vegan cheese on top for an added layer of flavour and a beautifully browned top.
4. Air Fry the Stuffed Peppers
Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes at 180°C, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden. Every air fryer works slightly differently, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, let the peppers cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These Ratatouille Stuffed Bell Peppers are delightful as a standalone dish or can be served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh leafy salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together the vibrant, comforting flavours of ratatouille with the convenience and efficiency of an air fryer. Here are a few reasons why it's a hit among home cooks:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, this recipe provides a good dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Quick and Easy: With prep and cooking time under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Customisable: Feel free to add your favourite ingredients or switch up herbs to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Chopping: Ensure all your vegetables are chopped to roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses, such as mozzarella, goat cheese, or a non-dairy option to suit your preference.
Storing and Reheating
These peppers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 160°C until warmed through. They also freeze well, but be sure to cool them completely before freezing, and reheat directly from frozen for the best results.
Whether you're a fan of traditional ratatouille or just looking for a new way to enjoy stuffed peppers, this recipe is sure to charm your taste buds and earn a place in your regular meal rotation. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish that brings a taste of Provence to your kitchen!