Marinated Stuffed Cherry Peppers: A Spicy & Savory Delight
Cherry peppers, those vibrant red or yellow orbs, pack a punch of flavor and can be surprisingly versatile. While they’re delicious pickled or added to sauces, stuffing them and marinating them takes their appeal to a whole new level. Marinated stuffed cherry peppers are a fantastic appetizer, a delightful addition to an antipasto platter, or even a unique sandwich topping. This recipe will guide you through the process of creating these savory and slightly spicy treats, offering variations and tips to customize them to your liking.
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of the pepper’s natural heat, the creamy filling, and the tangy marinade creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
* **Versatile Appetizer:** Perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a simple snack.
* **Impressive Presentation:** These vibrant, colorful peppers look beautiful on any table.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the filling and marinade to suit your preferences.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** The longer they marinate, the better they taste, making them ideal for preparing in advance.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
* **Cherry Peppers:** 24-30 fresh cherry peppers, preferably a mix of red and yellow for visual appeal. Choose peppers that are firm and free from blemishes.
* **Filling:**
* 1 cup ricotta cheese, whole milk for the best flavor and texture. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
* 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded. Other options include mozzarella, asiago, or a blend.
* 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, for a sharp, salty flavor.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced. Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped. Provides freshness and color.
* 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano. Contributes a classic Italian flavor.
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), for extra heat.
* Salt and black pepper, to taste. Season the filling to enhance the flavors.
* **Marinade:**
* 1 cup extra virgin olive oil. The base of the marinade, adding richness and flavor.
* 1/2 cup white wine vinegar. Provides tanginess and acidity.
* 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced. Infuses the marinade with garlic flavor.
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Enhances the Italian flavor profile.
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. Adds a sweet, aromatic note.
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), for extra heat in the marinade.
* 1 bay leaf. Contributes a subtle, savory flavor.
* Salt and black pepper, to taste. Season the marinade to your liking.
## Equipment
You’ll also need the following equipment:
* Small knife (paring knife or utility knife). For carefully coring and seeding the peppers.
* Small bowl. For preparing the cheese filling.
* Spoon or piping bag. For stuffing the peppers.
* Jar or airtight container. For marinating the peppers.
* Gloves (optional). Cherry peppers can be spicy, so wearing gloves while handling them can prevent skin irritation.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of delicious marinated stuffed cherry peppers:
**1. Prepare the Cherry Peppers:**
* **Wash the peppers:** Thoroughly wash the cherry peppers under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
* **Core and seed the peppers:** This is arguably the most time-consuming step, but it’s essential for creating space for the filling and reducing the heat. There are a few methods you can use:
* **Method 1 (The Traditional Method):** Using a small, sharp knife, carefully cut a circle around the stem of each pepper. Gently pull out the stem, along with the core and seeds. Be careful not to tear the pepper.
* **Method 2 (The Slit Method):** Make a small slit down the side of each pepper. Use the tip of your knife or a small spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
* **Rinse the peppers (optional):** If you’re concerned about the heat, you can rinse the cored and seeded peppers under cold running water to remove any remaining seeds and membranes. This will reduce the spiciness of the peppers.
* **Dry the peppers thoroughly:** Pat the peppers dry inside and out with paper towels. This is important to prevent the marinade from becoming watery.
**2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:**
* **Combine the ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, provolone cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
* **Mix well:** Use a fork or spoon to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined. The filling should be smooth and creamy.
* **Taste and adjust seasonings:** Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
**3. Stuff the Cherry Peppers:**
* **Fill the peppers:** Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully stuff each cherry pepper with the cheese filling. Pack the filling tightly into the pepper, making sure to fill it completely. You can also use your fingers to gently press the filling into the pepper.
* **Wipe off excess filling:** Use a clean paper towel to wipe off any excess filling from the outside of the peppers.
**4. Prepare the Marinade:**
* **Combine the ingredients:** In a jar or airtight container, combine the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, thinly sliced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
* **Mix well:** Stir the marinade well to combine all the ingredients.
**5. Marinate the Stuffed Cherry Peppers:**
* **Place the peppers in the marinade:** Gently place the stuffed cherry peppers into the jar or airtight container with the marinade. Make sure the peppers are submerged in the marinade. If necessary, add more olive oil to cover the peppers completely.
* **Seal the container:** Seal the jar or airtight container tightly.
* **Refrigerate:** Refrigerate the stuffed cherry peppers for at least 24 hours, or preferably 2-3 days. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they will become. Turn the jar or container occasionally to ensure that all the peppers are evenly marinated.
**6. Serve:**
* **Remove from the refrigerator:** Remove the marinated stuffed cherry peppers from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature. This will enhance their flavor.
* **Serve:** Serve the marinated stuffed cherry peppers as an appetizer, as part of an antipasto platter, or as a topping for sandwiches or salads. You can also serve them with crusty bread for dipping into the marinade.
## Tips and Variations
* **Spice Level:** Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes in both the filling and the marinade. For a milder flavor, omit the red pepper flakes altogether. For a spicier flavor, use hot cherry peppers or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
* **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different types of cheese in the filling. Try using mozzarella, asiago, goat cheese, or a blend of cheeses. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense flavor.
* **Meat Additions:** For a heartier filling, add some cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, pepperoni, or prosciutto to the cheese mixture.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Enhance the filling with finely chopped vegetables such as roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts.
* **Herb Variations:** Customize the flavor by using different herbs in the filling and marinade. Try using fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary.
* **Vinegar Options:** If you don’t have white wine vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar.
* **Pickled Cherry Peppers:** If you can’t find fresh cherry peppers, you can use pickled cherry peppers instead. Drain them well and pat them dry before stuffing them.
* **Grilled Cherry Peppers:** For a smoky flavor, grill the stuffed cherry peppers for a few minutes before marinating them. This will add a delicious charred flavor to the peppers.
* **Vegan Option:** To make a vegan version, use vegan ricotta cheese and vegan provolone cheese. You can also add some chopped walnuts or pine nuts to the filling for texture and flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
Marinated stuffed cherry peppers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
* **Appetizer:** Serve them as a standalone appetizer at parties or gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving.
* **Antipasto Platter:** Include them as part of an antipasto platter with other Italian favorites such as olives, cheeses, cured meats, and roasted vegetables.
* **Sandwich Topping:** Use them as a topping for sandwiches or paninis. They add a burst of flavor and a touch of spice to any sandwich.
* **Salad Addition:** Add them to salads for a pop of color and flavor. They pair well with Mediterranean-style salads with olives, feta cheese, and cucumbers.
* **Pizza Topping:** Dice them up and use them as a topping for pizza. They add a spicy and savory kick to any pizza.
* **Pasta Sauce:** Chop them up and add them to pasta sauce. They add a depth of flavor and a touch of heat to any pasta dish.
* **Garnish:** Use them as a garnish for grilled meats or fish. They add a pop of color and flavor to any dish.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Store the marinated stuffed cherry peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The longer they marinate, the better they taste.
* **Freezing:** While not ideal, you can freeze marinated stuffed cherry peppers. However, the texture of the cheese may change slightly. To freeze, place the peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 4 peppers)
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 8-10g
* Cholesterol: 40-50mg
* Sodium: 300-400mg
* Carbohydrates: 5-7g
* Fiber: 1-2g
* Sugar: 2-3g
* Protein: 8-10g
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion
Marinated stuffed cherry peppers are a delightful and versatile appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. With their vibrant colors, bold flavors, and customizable ingredients, they are the perfect addition to any party or gathering. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of these savory and slightly spicy treats!
Enjoy!