Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

Delight in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these colorful couscous stuffed peppers, perfect for a light meal or a satisfying side dish.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-04T21:14:32.422Z

These Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers bring together the essence of the Mediterranean diet, featuring wholesome ingredients and vibrant colors. Ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
  • Healthy, colorful, and visually appealing
  • Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins

A Taste of the Mediterranean

Mediterranean cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a popular choice for health-conscious eaters. The combination of herbs, vegetables, and healthy fats creates dishes that are not only delicious but also nourishing. In this Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers recipe, we celebrate these flavors by using fresh produce and a variety of textures. Each bite offers a delightful mix of sweetness from the peppers, crunch from the cucumbers, and a savory kick from the olives and feta cheese.

The use of couscous as a filling not only adds a satisfying chewiness but also serves as a versatile base that can be easily adapted to your taste. Whether you prefer a more robust flavor with added spices or a lighter touch with fresh herbs, couscous can accommodate your preferences. This recipe showcases how you can bring the essence of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and packed with nutrition.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These couscous stuffed peppers are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a healthy meal prep option, this dish fits the bill. They can be served as a main course or a delightful side dish, providing a burst of color and flavor to your table. Their vibrant presentation is sure to impress guests and family alike.

Additionally, the stuffed peppers can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing for easy reheating. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Simply pop them in the oven to warm through, and you'll have a wholesome meal ready in no time. The convenience combined with the delicious taste makes this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to bring Mediterranean flair into their home.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to customize the filling according to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp to the couscous mixture. For a vegetarian twist, black beans or quinoa can serve as excellent substitutes, providing additional nutrients and flavor.

You can also experiment with different vegetables in the filling. Spinach, artichokes, or roasted red peppers would complement the existing ingredients beautifully. Adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste, whether you want a hint of spice with red pepper flakes or a fresh note with basil. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this recipe multiple times without it feeling repetitive, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

  • 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 Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure to wash and prepare all vegetables before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers.

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up.

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 mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the couscous mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your healthy Mediterranean meal!

Nutritional Benefits

Couscous is not only a delicious grain but also a source of essential nutrients. It is high in carbohydrates, providing energy for your day. When combined with the freshness of vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese, this dish offers a balanced meal that supports overall well-being. The addition of vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers also brings a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a nutritious diet.

Bell peppers are particularly rich in vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and skin health. Incorporating them into your meals can help boost your nutrient intake, making these stuffed peppers a smart choice for those looking to enhance their nutrition while enjoying flavorful dishes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftover stuffed peppers, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Wrap each stuffed pepper in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

When reheating, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If using a microwave, place the pepper on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. This makes for a convenient and delicious meal option any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers can be served on their own or paired with a light salad for a refreshing meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully, adding a peppery crunch that enhances the overall dish. For a heartier option, serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a warm pita bread for a Mediterranean feast that will satisfy any appetite.

Additionally, consider serving these peppers with a yogurt-based dip, such as tzatziki, for an added layer of flavor. The creaminess of the yogurt works wonderfully with the savory filling, making each bite even more enjoyable. The versatility of this dish allows you to create a complete meal that is both satisfying and delightful.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can add zucchini, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to eat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Mediterranean Couscous Stuffed Peppers

Delight in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these colorful couscous stuffed peppers, perfect for a light meal or a satisfying side dish.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Seasonal Flavor Journey

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  2. 1 cup couscous
  3. 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
  4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  5. 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  6. 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  7. 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  8. 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  9. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  10. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  11. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  12. Salt and pepper to taste
  13. Fresh parsley for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up.

Step 02

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.

Step 03

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 04

Spoon the couscous mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Step 06

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 7g