๐ฏ Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers (Rice, Veggies & Herbs)
๐งบ Ingredients (4 servings)
For the Peppers
4 large bell peppers (any color)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper (to taste)
For the Filling
1 cup rice (short or long grain)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely diced
1 small cucumber, small diced (optional, for Mediterranean freshness)
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint or dill (optional, but recommended)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
ยฝ tsp garlic powder (or 2 minced garlic cloves)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper (to taste)
1ยผ cup water or vegetable broth
For Baking
ยฝ cup water or broth
1 tbsp olive oil
๐ฅ Instructions
1. Prep the Peppers
Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds.
Brush lightly with olive oil, salt, and pepper inside.
Place them in a baking dish.
2. Make the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan.
Add chopped onions and sautรฉ until soft.
Add tomato paste, tomatoes, spices, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2โ3 minutes.
Add rice and stir to coat with flavor.
Add water/broth and cook on low until the rice is half-cooked (not fully done).
Stir in parsley and mint/dill.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling into each bell pepper (leave a little room for rice expansion).
Place pepper tops back on, if you like (optional but traditional).
4. Bake
Pour ยฝ cup broth or water into the bottom of the baking dish.
Drizzle olive oil on top of the peppers.
Cover with foil and bake at 180ยฐC / 350ยฐF for 40 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes for slight browning.
๐ To Serve
Enjoy warm with:
Yogurt or tzatziki
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley

