Most regions of Italy have a version of stuffed capsicum, sometimes using mince meat. This easy-to-make vegetarian offering features ricotta, egg, pecorino, breadcrumbs and fresh herbs. You can use the mixture to stuff other vegetables too, such as zucchini or eggplant.
SERVES: 4
PREPARATION: 15MIN
COOKING: 30MIN
SKILL LEVEL: EASY
Ingredients
- 4 red capsicums (peppers)
- 400 g fresh full-fat ricotta
- ¾ cup(60 g) freshly grated pecorino
- 1lemon, zested
- 4 tbsp fresh breadcrumbs
- 1egg
- 4–5basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 2–3 tbsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling (optional)
- rocket or chicory leaves, to serve
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Wash the capsicums, cut off the tops and scoop out the white membrane and seeds. Place the capsicums on the prepared baking tray.
- Mix together the ricotta, pecorino, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, egg and herbs in a large bowl and season to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture into the capsicums until three-quarters full, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the filling and drizzle a tbsp of olive oil over each one. Drizzle extra oil all over the capsicum if desired.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a golden crust is formed. Serve hot or at room temperature with dark green, peppery rocket or chicory leaves.
Note
- When buying ricotta, I tend to steer clear of the kind sold in tubs as it is often too watery. Get a nice, firm slice from your local deli, if possible, or make your own if you feel adventurous.
Cook’s notes
Oven temperatures are for conventional; if using fan-forced (convection), reduce the temperature by 20˚C. | We use Australian tablespoons and cups: 1 teaspoon equals 5 ml; 1 tablespoon equals 20 ml; 1 cup equals 250 ml. | All herbs are fresh (unless specified) and cups are lightly packed. | All vegetables are medium size and peeled, unless specified. | All eggs are 55-60 g, unless specified.