Introduction:
Elevate your culinary journey with our Vegan Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Mini Peppers recipe. These delightful bite-sized treats marry the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of couscous and the sweetness of mini peppers. Bursting with vibrant colors and robust flavors, this dish is a testament to the beauty and versatility of plant-based cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a nutritious snack, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Join us as we embark on a culinary adventure inspired by the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
20 mini sweet peppers, halved and seeded
1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the optional garnish:
Extra chopped fresh herbs
Drizzle of balsamic glaze
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Prepare the couscous according to package instructions, using vegetable broth or water for added flavor. Fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, and cooked couscous. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley, basil, toasted pine nuts, and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside to cool slightly.
While the couscous mixture is cooling, prepare the mini peppers by halving and seeding them. Arrange the pepper halves on the prepared baking sheet.
Spoon the couscous mixture into each pepper half, pressing gently to fill them evenly.
Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and slightly blistered.
Once cooked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish the stuffed peppers with additional chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 90
Total Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 110mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 3g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints®: 3 per serving
Conclusion:
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with our Vegan Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Mini Peppers. These delightful morsels offer a perfect balance of savory and refreshing flavors, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a culinary adventure, these stuffed peppers are sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy the goodness of plant-based cuisine with each bite and revel in the joy of wholesome, flavorful eating. Bon appétit!