why make this recipe
Cold Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese are not just colorful and fun; they are also simple to make and absolutely delicious. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or as a light snack. The combination of sweet peppers with creamy filling makes for a delightful bite. Plus, you can easily customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. These tasty appetizers are sure to impress your friends and family and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for gatherings.
how to make Cold Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
Ingredients:
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Mini Sweet Peppers: 1 pound (approximately 20-25 peppers). These are the stars of the show! Look for a mix of colors – red, yellow, orange – for visual appeal and a slightly varied flavor profile. Mini sweet peppers are preferred over bell peppers for their manageable size and naturally sweeter taste, which complements the creamy filling perfectly. Ensure they are firm, brightly colored, and without blemishes. Choose peppers that are roughly the same size for uniform stuffing and presentation.
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Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (1 package), softened. The foundation of our creamy filling! Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the richest flavor and best texture. Softening the cream cheese is crucial for easy mixing and a smooth filling. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour or gently microwave it in 15-second intervals, being careful not to melt it. Alternatively, you can use Neufchâtel cheese for a slightly lighter option.
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Fresh Herbs (Optional, but Highly Recommended): 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly. Consider using a mix of herbs like chives, dill, parsley, or green onions.
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Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon. A touch of garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth to the cream cheese filling without being overpowering.
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Onion Powder: ¼ teaspoon. This provides a gentle oniony background note that enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
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Salt: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste). Salt balances the sweetness of the peppers and enhances all the flavors in the cream cheese filling.
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Black Pepper: â…› teaspoon (freshly ground, or to taste). Freshly ground black pepper adds another layer of complexity to the filling.
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Optional Add-ins for Flavor Variations: You can consider adding shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled feta cheese, diced pimentos, or even chopped sun-dried tomatoes to create different flavor profiles.
Directions:
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Cut the mini sweet peppers in half lengthwise or slice off the very top near the stem. Remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon or your fingers. Make sure they are clean for easy stuffing.
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In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place the softened cream cheese. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. If using, add your chosen fresh herbs and any optional add-ins.
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Mix all the ingredients until they are completely combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the creaminess intact. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed.
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Fill the prepared mini peppers with the cream cheese mixture. You can use a piping bag for a decorative look or simply spoon it in.
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Garnish with extra fresh herbs, a sprinkle of paprika, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. These stuffed mini peppers are best served cold.
how to serve Cold Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
Serve your cold stuffed mini peppers on a beautiful platter. They make a great appetizer alongside drinks or as part of a snack spread. You can also pair them with a dipping sauce for added flavor.
how to store Cold Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
tips to make Cold Stuffed Mini Peppers with Cream Cheese
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Use colorful mini peppers for visual appeal.
- If you want a spicier version, add jalapeños to the filling.
variation
You can add different ingredients to your cream cheese filling for unique flavors. Consider using different types of cheese, fresh herbs, or spices. You can even serve them warm if desired!
FAQs
1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze stuffed mini peppers?
It is best to eat them fresh, but if you must, you can freeze the filled peppers. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
3. What can I substitute cream cheese with?
You can use a plant-based cream cheese alternative if you want a vegan option or Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version.
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