Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Mozzarella

This vibrant recipe for stuffed bell peppers offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. The tender bell peppers are brimming with a savory filling of rice, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy black olives, all enhanced with the addition of melted mozzarella. Cooking the rice in a rich vegetable broth adds layers of flavor, while the tomato sauce gives it a fresh twist. The oregano sprinkled on top adds a hint of Mediterranean aroma, giving the dish an extra touch of authenticity. It's a vegetarian-friendly recipe that can serve as a main dish or a hearty side. With a mix of colors from the peppers and tomatoes, it adds a visual appeal to the table. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for summer meals or cozy winter dinners. It's sure to become a family favorite, satisfying both adults and kids alike with its rich taste and fun presentation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 5 bell peppers
• 300 ml vegetable broth
• 100 g rice
• 100 ml tomato juice
• 50-60 g pitted black olives
• 8 cherry tomatoes
• 1 mozzarella ball

Spices:

• Oregano

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking the rice in 200 ml of vegetable broth, combined with the tomato juice. This infusion will give the rice extra flavor.

2. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off four of the bell peppers and remove the seeds to create a hollow for filling. Reserve one pepper for later.

3. Chop and Mix: Dice the reserved bell pepper into small cubes, then slice the olives into rings. Mix these with the cooked rice for added texture and flavor.

4. Stuff the Peppers: Carefully fill each hollowed-out bell pepper with the rice mixture. Press a cherry tomato into the center of each filled pepper; this will enhance the flavor as it cooks.

5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, ensuring they stand upright.

6. Add Mozzarella: Slice the mozzarella ball into thin slices and place one slice atop each stuffed pepper for a creamy finish.

7. Add Remaining Broth: Pour what’s left of the vegetable broth and the rice’s cooking liquid into the bottom of the baking dish. This will help steam the peppers, keeping them moist.

8. Bake the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the peppers for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the mozzarella is nicely melted and slightly browned.

9. Finish with Oregano: Once the peppers are cooked, sprinkle them generously with oregano for that signature aromatic touch.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully plate the stuffed peppers and serve hot. They make a delightful main course, bursting with flavor and color.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Extra Flavor: Add herbs like basil or thyme to the rice mixture for more flavor.
• Presentation: Use a variety of bell pepper colors for a more visually appealing dish.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 10 g
• Fats: 8 g
• Carbs: 36 g

Variations

• Substitute black olives with green olives for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add sautéed mushrooms to the rice mixture for added earthiness.
• For a spiced-up version, mix in some chopped jalapeños with the rice.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added pop of freshness.

Best Places

1. Da Peppe - Renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy ambiance. Location: Via della Pace 28, Rome, Italy.
2. Cafe Mozaïque - Offers a delightful mix of local and international flavors in a charming setting. Location: 99 Rue Commerce, Paris, France.
3. The Green Table - Known for its inventive vegetarian dishes and eco-friendly practices. Location: 75 9th Ave, New York, USA.
4. Mediterraneo Cafe - Specializes in Mediterranean-inspired meals with a friendly atmosphere. Location: 345 Kings Rd, London, UK.
5. La Bella Italia - Offers a traditional taste of Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Location: 415 Cuba Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
6. Oliva Mediterranea - A family-run spot with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Location: Rue Antoine Dansaert 185, Brussels, Belgium.
7. Spice of Life - Combines unique spices and traditional recipes for unforgettable meals. Location: 12 Market Sq, Charleston, South Africa.
8. Trattoria al Forno - Known for its wood-fired dishes and welcoming vibe. Location: Viale Luigi Cadorna 5, Milan, Italy.
9. Cafe Zeytini - Offers rich, flavorful dishes with a touch of innovation. Location: 41 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia.
10. Bistro Bella Cucina - A charming spot where classic meets contemporary culinary fashion. Location: 21 Coventry St, Melbourne, Australia.