Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Seasonal Table
Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a healthy meal or a delightful side. The combination of couscous, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices packed into colorful bell peppers creates a feast for the eyes and the palate.
These Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and spices provides a wonderful texture and flavor, while the bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy element.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Healthy and colorful presentation
- Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
A Healthy Mediterranean Delight
Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The use of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers offers a burst of vitamins, while couscous provides a wholesome source of carbohydrates. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor.
The vibrant colors of the bell peppers add to the dish’s allure, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, from the crunch of the fresh veggies to the creaminess of the feta cheese. It’s a dish that truly celebrates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Customization and Versatility
One of the best aspects of Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers is their versatility. You can easily tailor the filling to suit your dietary preferences or use up leftovers. For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some olives for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless, making this dish adaptable for any occasion.
Additionally, you can swap out the spices and herbs to create new flavor profiles. For instance, try adding cumin and coriander for a more Middle Eastern twist, or incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a garden-fresh taste. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy this recipe time and again without it becoming monotonous.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a meal prep-friendly option, Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers fit the bill perfectly. You can prepare a batch over the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. They store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, maintaining their flavor and texture.
Pack them for lunch or serve them as a quick dinner option. Their portability makes them ideal for a busy lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy healthy, homemade meals without the hassle. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while keeping your meals exciting.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.
Cook the Couscous
In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the couscous mixture into each bell pepper, packing it lightly. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top if desired.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Serving Suggestions
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the couscous mixture. You can also substitute quinoa or rice for the couscous if desired.
Storage Tips
To keep your Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 4 days, making them an excellent option for meal prep. If you plan to freeze them, consider undercooking the peppers slightly to maintain their texture when reheated.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can elevate the flavors and make them feel freshly made.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers can be served as a standalone dish, but they also pair beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more filling meal. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the peppers.
For a more robust dining experience, serve with grilled meats or fish. The fresh Mediterranean flavors of the stuffed peppers will enhance any protein, making it a harmonious meal that’s sure to impress.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.
→ What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to mix in any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, spinach, or olives for added flavor and nutrition.
→ Are these stuffed peppers gluten-free?
Using gluten-free couscous or quinoa makes this dish gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers
Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a healthy meal or a delightful side. The combination of couscous, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices packed into colorful bell peppers creates a feast for the eyes and the palate.
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.
In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the couscous mixture into each bell pepper, packing it lightly. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top if desired.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the couscous mixture. You can also substitute quinoa or rice for the couscous if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 370mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g