Delicious Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Ground Turkey Recipe

Delicious Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Ground Turkey Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Stuffed Peppers:

  • 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Slice the tops off each pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, you can trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand upright. Place the prepared peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.

Make the Stuffing

1. Cook Ground Turkey: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

2. Add Ground Turkey: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground turkey to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 6-8 minutes).

3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), chopped spinach, cooked quinoa or brown rice, and half of the feta cheese and Kalamata olives. Mix well and allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Stuff the Peppers

1. Stuff Each Pepper: Carefully spoon the turkey mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack the filling. Fill the peppers generously.

2. Prepare Tomato Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly.

3. Layer in Baking Dish: Pour half of the prepared tomato sauce into the bottom of the baking dish. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the dish, and then pour the remaining sauce over the top of the stuffed peppers.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

2. Remove Foil and Add Cheese: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining feta cheese and olives on top of the stuffed peppers. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.

Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Mediterranean stuffed peppers provides a healthy balance of nutrients. Ground turkey is rich in protein while the quinoa and vegetables offer fiber and essential vitamins. With the addition of tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, you’ll also enjoy healthy fats and antioxidants that contribute to overall well-being.

• Calories: approximately 360 per stuffed pepper
• Protein: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 34 grams
• Fat: 14 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

• Choosing Peppers: Select firm bell peppers with no blemishes. Opt for vibrant colors like red or yellow for added sweetness.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffing one day in advance. Stuff the peppers and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Custom Fillings: Feel free to substitute ground turkey with lean beef, chicken, or plant-based ground meat. Adjust seasoning based on your preference.
• Add Spice: If you enjoy heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stuffing mixture.
• Garnishes: Top with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy element.

Storage