π Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
π½οΈ Serves: 4
β±οΈ Prep Time: 15 min
π₯ Cook Time: 35β40 min
π₯ Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
4 large bell peppers (any color), tops removed & insides cleaned
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, finely diced
1 cup cooked rice, orzo, or quinoa
1 cup chickpeas, cooked or canned (rinsed)
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
ΒΌ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
ΒΌ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
Β½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional
Lemon wedges for serving
Extra herbs like basil or mint
π©βπ³ Instructions
Preheat the oven
190Β°C / 375Β°F
Prepare the peppers
Slice the tops off and remove membranes & seeds.
Place in a baking dish cut-side up.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Cook the filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
SautΓ© onions 3 min β add garlic & zucchini, cook 5 min.
Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas, cooked rice/orzo, olives, oregano, paprika.
Season with salt & pepper.
Remove from heat β mix in parsley and feta.
Fill the peppers
Spoon mixture tightly into each pepper.
Cover baking dish with foil.
Bake
Bake 30 minutes, then remove foil.
Bake 10 more minutes until peppers are soft and tops slightly golden.
Serve
Drizzle with olive oil or lemon juice.
Add fresh herbs on top.
π‘ Tips & Variations
| Variation | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Vegan version | Skip feta or use vegan cheese |
| Spicy | Add chili flakes or harissa paste |
| More protein | Add cooked ground turkey or lentils |
| Low-carb | Replace rice/orzo with cauliflower rice |
πΏ Health Benefits
β High fiber (good digestion & fullness)
β Plant protein from chickpeas
β Rich in antioxidants from peppers & tomatoes
β Heart-healthy fats from olive oil

