Baked Bell Pepper Rolls: A Delightful Antipasto Recipe
Baked Bell Pepper Rolls are a delicious and colorful appetizer that offers a perfect balance of savory flavors with a crunchy texture. These rolls are made from roasted bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, anchovies, capers, fresh herbs, and mozzarella. The entire dish is baked to perfection, creating a wonderful combination of crispy edges and a soft, melted interior. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, these baked bell pepper rolls will make for an unforgettable starter.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow bell pepper | 1 |
| Red bell pepper | 1 |
| Breadcrumbs | 2 tablespoons |
| Salted anchovy fillet | 1 |
| Fresh parsley | 1 bunch |
| Pickled capers | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh basil leaves | 3 |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Mozzarella cheese | 20g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fats | 9g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
Instructions
-
Roast the Bell Peppers
Begin by cleaning the yellow and red bell peppers. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down, ensuring they’re free of any dirt. Place the whole peppers (do not peel) directly on a baking sheet. Set your oven to 250°C (480°F) and roast the peppers for about 20-25 minutes. During this time, make sure to turn the peppers every 5-7 minutes to ensure they roast evenly. The skin will start to wrinkle and darken, signaling they are ready. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool. -
Prepare the Filling
While the peppers are cooling, it’s time to prepare the stuffing. Start by finely chopping the fresh parsley and the anchovy fillet, making sure to remove any bones from the anchovy. Cut the mozzarella into small cubes and set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the chopped anchovy, capers, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Using a garlic press, crush the garlic clove directly into the mixture. Tear the basil leaves into small pieces by hand and add them to the bowl, mixing everything together thoroughly. This blend of flavors will create a rich, herby, and savory filling for your bell peppers. -
Prepare the Peppers
After the peppers have cooled, remove the green stems and slice each pepper in half. Carefully take out the seeds from the center, ensuring you don’t tear the flesh of the peppers. You should now have eight wide, flat pepper halves that are perfect for stuffing. -
Stuff the Peppers
Lay the halved peppers flat on a cutting board or clean surface. Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture across each pepper half, pressing it down gently to ensure it sticks. Place a couple of small mozzarella cubes in the center of each stuffed pepper. The cheese will melt beautifully as it bakes, adding a creamy texture to the dish. -
Roll the Peppers
After stuffing, roll the pepper halves carefully, securing the filling inside. Arrange the rolled peppers seam side down on a baking dish. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the rolls to add flavor and prevent them from drying out during baking. -
Bake the Rolls
Place the stuffed and rolled bell peppers in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) and bake for 10 minutes. This will allow the mozzarella to melt and the breadcrumbs to crisp up nicely. Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your baked bell pepper rolls while they’re still warm. These rolls make a perfect antipasto or appetizer and can be served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread. Their vibrant colors and aromatic flavors will surely impress your guests.
These Baked Bell Pepper Rolls are a delightful combination of roasted peppers, savory breadcrumbs, and melted mozzarella, making them an excellent choice for any gathering or casual meal. The dish is easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients, yet it delivers a fantastic taste and presentation that is bound to be a hit at your next meal or celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: The combination of anchovies, capers, fresh herbs, and mozzarella brings a burst of umami flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted peppers.
- Healthy: The dish is packed with fresh vegetables, lean mozzarella, and heart-healthy olive oil, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.
- Versatile: Serve these rolls as an appetizer or light snack at your next dinner party, or enjoy them as a delicious side dish to your main course.
- Simple & Quick: With just a few steps and minimal preparation, this recipe is both easy and time-efficient, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Enjoy these Baked Bell Pepper Rolls with your family or friends and discover just how simple and satisfying a homemade antipasto can be!
