Jamie Oliver Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Jamie Oliver Rice Stuffed Peppers are a delicious, healthy, and colorful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side for dinner. Packed with rice, fresh herbs, and vegetables, these stuffed peppers are both nutritious and flavorful. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized with different fillings depending on what you have on hand.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Healthy and filling: The rice and vegetables make this dish a wholesome and satisfying meal.
• Versatile: You can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarians or meat-eaters.
• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
• Perfect for any meal: These stuffed peppers work well as a main course, side dish, or even a light lunch.
• Great for meal prep: Make these stuffed peppers ahead of time and reheat for an easy, nutritious meal.

What is Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers are bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked rice, herbs, and vegetables, then baked until tender. The rice stuffing is light yet hearty, making it a versatile dish that can be served on its own or alongside a larger meal.

Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 200g long-grain or basmati rice
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 zucchini (chopped)
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions, typically about 15 minutes, until it’s tender. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Set the hollowed peppers aside. If the peppers don’t stand upright, you can slice a small bit off the bottom to level them.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the chopped zucchini and cook for another 5 minutes until tender. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Combine the Rice and Vegetables

Stir the cooked rice into the pan with the vegetable mixture, combining everything thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re using herbs like parsley or basil, stir them in at this point.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Place the hollowed peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the rice and vegetable mixture into each pepper, packing it in tightly. If you like, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of each pepper for added flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden.

Step 7: Serve

Once the peppers are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot as a main course or side dish.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers

• Green Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a light, healthy meal.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread to complement the stuffed peppers.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add more vegetables like roasted carrots or zucchini as a side.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: These stuffed peppers work well alongside grilled meats for a more substantial meal.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken with Mustard and Leeks 30 Minute Meal

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers

• Pre-cook the rice: Cooking the rice in advance ensures the filling is soft and fluffy, with no risk of undercooked grains.
• Choose the right peppers: Large bell peppers work best as they provide enough space for stuffing.
• Customize the filling: Feel free to add extra vegetables, cooked meat, or even beans to the rice mixture.
• Use different cheeses: For extra richness, top the peppers with grated mozzarella, cheddar, or feta cheese.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them before baking. You can bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

• Add protein: Stir in cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to make a heartier filling.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to the rice mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegan version: Keep the recipe vegan by omitting the cheese and using vegetable stock in the rice.
• Herb twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or cilantro for extra flavor.
• Mediterranean version: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

• Refrigeration: Store the leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed peppers for up to 2 months. Freeze them before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw in the fridge before cooking.
• Reheating: Reheat the stuffed peppers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers?

Yes, rice stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 2 months. You can freeze them either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, allow the peppers to thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed.

How do I keep stuffed peppers from getting soggy?

To prevent stuffed peppers from getting soggy, avoid overcooking the peppers and make sure to steam dry the rice and vegetables before stuffing. If using canned tomatoes, drain excess liquid to reduce moisture in the filling.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in stuffed peppers?

Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative. Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so prepare it according to package instructions before adding it to the stuffing mixture.

How long do I bake rice stuffed peppers?

Bake rice stuffed peppers at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes covered with foil, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Rice Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With a simple rice and vegetable filling, these stuffed peppers are healthy, delicious, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a side, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking and enjoy this vibrant dish!

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken Pot Pie

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