is a delightful Spanish dish that features roasted peppers stuffed with cheese, embodying the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This mouth-watering dish typically showcases the vibrant sweetness of roasted bell peppers paired with a gooey, melted cheese filling, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish for any meal. Its popularity stems from its irresistible taste and simplicity, as well as the versatility to use various types of cheese and peppers to suit different palates. As food enthusiasts explore traditional Spanish cuisine, Pimientos Asados con Queso stands out for its ability to bring both comfort and sophistication to the dining table.
> “The beauty of Pimientos Asados con Queso lies not just in its flavor but also in its colorful presentation, making it an impressive dish for gatherings and celebrations.”
Pimientos Asados con Queso
Pimientos Asados con Queso is a traditional Spanish dish that highlights the rich flavors of roasted peppers combined with the creaminess of cheese. This dish is especially popular in the regions of Andalusia and Extremadura, where local varieties of peppers are abundant. The process of roasting the peppers enhances their sweetness, making them a delightful accompaniment or a standalone dish. Often enjoyed as a tapa, it reflects the essence of Mediterranean cuisinesimple ingredients prepared with care.
History
The tradition of roasting peppers dates back centuries in Spain, where diverse pepper varieties thrive due to the warm climate. These roasted peppers have been used in various dishes, symbolizing comfort and home-cooked meals. Over time, cheese has become a common pairing, enriching the flavors and textures. This dish embodies Spanish culinary heritage, showcasing the balance of freshness and richness typical of the cuisine.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Red Bell Peppers | 4 large |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Feta Cheese | 100 grams, crumbled |
| Fresh Basil | for garnish |
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) to prepare for roasting the peppers.
- Prepare the Peppers: Wash the red bell peppers thoroughly. Cut them in half, remove the seeds, and place them skin-side up on a baking sheet.
- Season: Drizzle the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add the minced garlic over the peppers for added flavor.
- Roast the Peppers: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the peppers for about 20-25 minutes, or until the skins are blistered and peeling.
- Cool the Peppers: Once roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. This will make it easier to peel the skins off.
- Peel the Peppers: Gently peel off the blistered skin from the peppers. It’s okay if some skin remains for added texture.
- Stuff with Cheese: Fill each roasted pepper half with crumbled feta cheese. You can also add herbs or spices if desired.
- Final Bake: Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted and warmed through.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature as a delicious tapa or appetizer!
Pimientos Asados con Queso is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of Mediterranean cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your guests or bring joy to your family meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the warm, inviting aroma of roasted peppers combined with creamy cheese!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pimientos Asados con Queso?
Pimientos Asados con Queso are roasted peppers stuffed with cheese, a popular dish in Spanish cuisine.
What type of peppers are used?
Typically, red bell peppers or padrón peppers are used for roasting and stuffing.
What kind of cheese is best?
Cheeses like Queso Manchego, goat cheese, or feta are ideal for stuffing, providing rich flavor.
Can I use other fillings?
Yes, you can add ingredients like herbs, spices, or even meats to customize the filling.
How do you prepare Pimientos Asados?
Roast the peppers in the oven until charred, peel the skin, and stuff them with cheese before baking again.
Are they served hot or cold?
Pimientos Asados con Queso are typically served warm, enhancing the cheese’s meltiness.
What dishes pair well with Pimientos Asados con Queso?
They pair well with Spanish tapas, grilled meats, or served as an appetizer.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the peppers and prepare the filling in advance, then bake them just before serving.
How do you store leftovers?
Store leftover Pimientos Asados in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can they be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just ensure they are fully cooled and wrapped properly.
What is the cooking time?
Roasting the peppers takes about 20-30 minutes at 400°F, while baking the stuffed peppers takes another 15-20 minutes.
Are Pimientos Asados con Queso vegetarian?
Yes, they are vegetarian-friendly as they primarily consist of peppers and cheese.
What is the nutritional value?
The dish is rich in vitamins from the peppers and protein from the cheese, but nutritional content varies based on ingredients used.
Can they be made spicy?
To add spice, consider using spicy cheese or adding jalapeños to the filling.
