Mini peppers are the perfect canvas for a delicious and nutritious stuffed appetizer or side dish. These bite-sized beauties are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and a variety of health benefits. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a fun family-friendly meal, or simply seeking a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, stuffed mini peppers are sure to delight your taste buds.
The Versatility of Mini Peppers
Mini peppers, also known as baby bell peppers or sweet peppers, are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Vibrant Colors: Mini peppers come in an array of vibrant hues, including red, yellow, orange, and even purple, adding a beautiful pop of color to any dish.
- Mild Flavor: Unlike their larger bell pepper counterparts, mini peppers have a milder, sweeter flavor that complements a wide range of fillings and seasonings.
- Nutrient-Dense: These petite peppers are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, making them a nutritious choice.
- Bite-Sized Perfection: The small size of mini peppers makes them the perfect vessel for stuffing, allowing for a delightful one-bite experience.
Whether you’re looking to create an impressive appetizer, a side dish to accompany your main meal, or a healthy snack, stuffed mini peppers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
Ingredients for Stuffed Mini Peppers
To make these delectable Stuffed Mini Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 24 mini bell peppers, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes, leaving the stems intact if desired for a prettier presentation.
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the filling is smooth.
- Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each mini pepper half with the creamy cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
- Arrange the stuffed mini peppers on the prepared baking sheet, placing them cut-side up.
- Bake the stuffed mini peppers for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through and slightly browned on top.
- Remove the baked stuffed mini peppers from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 2 stuffed mini pepper halves
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g
Stuffed mini peppers are a nutritious and flavorful option that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. The combination of the sweet and crunchy peppers, creamy cheese filling, and aromatic herbs and spices creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy.
Flavor Variations
While the classic cream cheese and cheddar filling is a crowd-pleaser, you can easily customize the flavors of your stuffed mini peppers to suit your taste preferences:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a kick of heat.
- Mediterranean: Swap the cheddar for feta cheese and add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and fresh basil.
- Southwestern: Use a blend of Monterey Jack and pepper Jack cheeses, and add diced roasted red peppers, cumin, and chili powder.
- Herbed: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil into the filling for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
- Vegetarian: For a meatless option, replace the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew or almond-based cheese.
The possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations to find your personal favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed mini peppers can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Appetizer: Serve the baked stuffed mini peppers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
- Side Dish: Pair the stuffed peppers with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a hearty main course.
- Snack: Pack the stuffed mini peppers as a healthy and satisfying snack for on-the-go.
- Salad Topping: Add the baked stuffed peppers to a fresh green salad for a pop of color and flavor.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these Stuffed Mini Peppers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and the natural sweetness of the mini peppers in every bite!
