In the annals of summer cookery, Caprese salad is a perennial favorite. With its combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, it's a dish that captures the essence of the season. But what if you could take that classic combination and give it a fun and unexpected twist? That's where these Caprese Stuffed Bell Peppers come in.
The idea for this recipe came to me one day when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover Caprese salad. I had already made a batch of the salad for a party, but there was still a bit left over. Not wanting to waste it, I started to think about what I could do with it. I could have just eaten it as is, but I wanted to find a way to make it more exciting. That's when the idea for these stuffed bell peppers hit me.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 35 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
4 bell peppers, any color
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, Parmesan, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture.
Place the bell peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot or at room temperature.
Why It Works
The combination of sweet bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella is a classic for a reason.
Stuffing the bell peppers with the Caprese mixture creates a fun and unexpected twist on the classic salad.
The balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing out the richness of the mozzarella.
The bell peppers roast in the oven until tender, while the cheese melts and bubbles, creating a warm and comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.