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Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers: A Delightful Treat

Mini peppers have gained popularity not just for their vibrant colours but also for their sweet crunch and versatility in the kitchen. When paired with a delicious stuffing, they transform into an irresistible snack or side dish. Enter the air fryer – a cooking appliance that ensures your stuffed mini peppers are perfectly cooked with a delightful crispiness, all while keeping them healthier than traditional frying methods.

The Appeal of Air Frying

Air frying has revolutionised how we approach cooking, particularly when it comes to creating dishes that are lower in fat without sacrificing flavour. By circulating hot air around the food, the air fryer cooks it evenly, achieving that coveted golden brown exterior in a fraction of the time it takes to bake. It’s also a breeze to clean, making it a favourite for busy home cooks.

Ingredients

To make Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Peppers:

• 12-15 mini sweet peppers (various colours for a vibrant presentation)

For the Stuffing:

• 200g cream cheese, softened
• 100g cooked sausage (or vegetarian alternative), crumbled
• 50g grated cheddar cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for garnish

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Wash the mini peppers under cold running water and dry them thoroughly.
2. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be careful not to cut all the way through – you want them to hold their shape.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled sausage, grated cheddar, minced garlic, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined. If you’re using fresh herbs, fold them in at this stage.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each pepper half with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously stuffed.

Step 4: Air Frying

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the stuffed peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Once cooked, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. They make an excellent appetiser for a dinner party, a charming addition to a picnic spread, or a nutritious snack any time of the day. Pair them with a light dip, such as tzatziki or a homemade marinara sauce, for an extra layer of flavour.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Stuffed Mini Peppers are a delicious and visually appealing dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Their vibrant colours and enticing flavours make them perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself to something special. What’s more, the use of an air fryer means you can enjoy all the crispy goodness with less guilt. Give this recipe a try and savour the delightful combination of flavours and textures that these stuffed peppers bring to your table!