Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this bright, tangy stuffed pepperoncini recipe and why each ingredient matters.
- 12–16 whole pepperoncini peppers, drained — These mild, tangy peppers form the base of the recipe, offering the perfect vessel for the creamy filling.
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened — Helps bind the filling together, creating a smooth, spreadable, creamy texture.
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese — Adds classic salty, tangy Mediterranean flavor and a slightly crumbly texture to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced — Infuses the filling with bold, aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped — Brightens the filling with fresh, herbal flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped — Adds a fragrant, slightly sweet, classic Italian herb note.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — A classic herb blend that ties the filling together.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano — Adds earthy, aromatic depth typical of Mediterranean cooking.
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest — Adds bright, aromatic citrus flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice — Adds bright acidity that balances the richness of the cheeses.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper — Adds a subtle, warm bite.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional — For those who enjoy a subtle kick of heat.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil — Adds richness and a distinctly Mediterranean flavor to the filling.
Instructions
This recipe comes together in a series of simple steps. Here’s exactly how to make it.
Drain the pepperoncini well and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully cut a slit lengthwise in each pepper and remove the seeds if desired, keeping the peppers intact enough to hold the filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and crumbled feta. Add the garlic, parsley, basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix again. For an extra-smooth filling, use a hand mixer for about 30 seconds.
Transfer the feta mixture to a piping bag or zip-top bag with one corner snipped off. Carefully pipe the filling into each pepperoncini, filling them generously but without overstuffing.
Arrange the stuffed pepperoncini on a serving platter or covered container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld.
Before serving, drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil, or a little extra crumbled feta.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12–16 stuffed pepperoncini