Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers

Name: Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bell peppers (any color); 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultural Kitchen

I absolutely love these Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers! Every bite is bursting with flavor and they are incredibly satisfying. The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs beautifully with the savory chickpea filling, which is packed with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s always a delight to serve these at dinner gatherings, and I love how colorful they are on the plate. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a standout dish for a gathering, these stuffed peppers never disappoint!

Created by

Elara Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:23:35.885Z

When I first tried stuffed peppers, I was captivated by how versatile they could be. This Mediterranean version quickly became my go-to recipe due to its wholesome ingredients and vibrant colors. The secret lies in the combination of spices and the creamy feta that ties everything together. It's not just about filling the peppers; it’s about creating a harmony of flavors.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with various fillings, but the chickpeas add a lovely texture and make it a hearty dish. I highly recommend roasting the peppers before stuffing them for an extra layer of flavor. It gives the dish a warm, smoky taste that elevates each bite. Give it a try!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Healthy and satisfying without sacrificing flavor
A colorful dish that brightens any table
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables and spices

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers, opt for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size, with smooth skin and vibrant color. These characteristics indicate freshness and ensure a satisfying crunch when baked. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, go for red or yellow peppers, while green ones will bring a slightly more bitter taste. Regardless of the color, aim for peppers that stand upright, which will help them hold the stuffing better during baking.

Before you start preparing the peppers, consider how they will fit in your baking dish. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to create a flat base that prevents tipping. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation. Each pepper should stand its ground in the dish, allowing the stuffing to warm up uniformly without spilling out.

Enhancing the Filling

The chickpea filling in this recipe is truly versatile. You can elevate the dish by adding ingredients such as spinach or kale for extra nutrients and a pop of color. Just sauté these greens for a few minutes before folding them into the mixture. If you want to bring a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling to spice things up!

For those on a dairy-free diet, substituting the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative will work well. Nutritional yeast can also be a great addition for a cheesy flavor without dairy. If you enjoy a nutty crunch, consider incorporating some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds into the mix to add texture, enhancing that delightful contrast to the soft chickpeas.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started on your Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers!

Stuffed Peppers

4 bell peppers (any color)
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cooked quinoa
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Following these steps will lead you to perfectly stuffed peppers!

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, cooked quinoa, feta cheese, olives, cherry tomatoes, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the chickpea mixture into each prepared pepper, packing it tightly. Any leftover filling can be baked in a separate dish.

Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to slightly brown the tops.

Serve

Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Bon appétit! Enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers with your favorite side salad or bread.

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the filling. If you're vegetarian, substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Mediterranean Chickpea Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply stuff the peppers and bake them as directed. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors in the filling to meld together beautifully.

Alternatively, if you want to assemble a larger batch, consider freezing the unbaked stuffed peppers. Wrap each pepper individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake them, there’s no need to thaw; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to your baking time to ensure they cook through properly.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers can be served as a complete main dish, but they also make a delightful side to grilled meats or fish. Pairing them with a refreshing salad or a light yogurt dressing can create a well-rounded meal. The contrasting flavors will enhance your dining experience, making every bite more enjoyable.

For a rustic touch, consider serving the stuffed peppers on a bed of grain like farro or barley, which will complement the Mediterranean flavor profile. Drizzle with a high-quality olive oil and lemon juice just before serving to elevate the dish even further, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for your table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the peppers and filling a day in advance. Just refrigerate them separately and assemble before baking.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can add zucchini, spinach, or even corn to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Once baked, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. They can be reheated in the oven later.

→ Are these peppers gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free quinoa and ensure your feta cheese is gluten-free, this dish is perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.