Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I chopped fresh herbs and mixed the creamy goat cheese, a medley of scents wafted through my kitchen, taking me back to sunny Mediterranean markets. Today, I’m excited to share my simple recipe for Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini, a delicious no-bake appetizer that marries sweet, mildly spicy peppers with a tangy, herb-infused filling. This delightful dish is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering, and the best part? You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a rewarding option for those busy evenings or impromptu get-togethers. With its vibrant flavors and vegetarian-friendly appeal, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress without breaking the bank. Curious to see how easy it is to make this delightful appetizer? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Appetizer So Special? Simplicity at its finest: This Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini recipe is quick and easy, requiring no baking and simple ingredients. Deliciously versatile: Use different herbs or swap goat cheese for cream cheese to suit your taste. Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for any gathering, from casual barbecues to elegant soirees. Light and fresh: This vegetarian-friendly appetizer won’t weigh you down while still satisfying your guests. Make ahead: It can be prepped in advance, allowing you to enjoy the party just as much as everyone else! Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Ingredients For the Peppers • Peperoncini – A mix of sweet and mildly spicy flavors; make sure to drain and deseed them for easy stuffing. For the Filling • Goat Cheese – Provides a rich creaminess and tang; use softened cheese for smoother blending. • Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; always opt for fresh for the best taste. • Fresh Herbs (Basil and Tarragon recommended) – Infuses the filling with aromatic freshness; feel free to swap with your favorites. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste to maximize the flavor. For Garnish • Chopped Fresh Herbs – Adds an extra touch of color and flavor on the plate; perfect to elevate your presentation. This Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini recipe is not just easy to make but also guarantees a burst of delightful flavors that will dazzle your guests! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Step 1: Prepare the Peperoncini Begin by draining the peperoncini from their brine and gently cutting off the tops for easy stuffing. Carefully use a small spoon or your fingers to remove any seeds inside, taking care not to damage the peppers. Set the cleaned peperoncini aside on a plate, ready for filling with the delicious herbed goat cheese mixture. Step 2: Make the Filling In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine softened goat cheese, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and your choice of aromatic herbs like basil and tarragon. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed. Taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as desired. The result should be a flavorful filling that complements the pepper’s mild heat. Step 3: Stuff the Peperoncini Using a small spoon or a piping bag, carefully spoon the herbed goat cheese filling into each prepared pepper. Pack the filling gently to ensure they are well-stuffed but not overfilled, allowing for a neat presentation. As you go, lay the stuffed peperoncini on a serving platter, showcasing their vibrant colors and delicious filling. Step 4: Garnish and Serve Once all the Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini are filled, take a moment to garnish the platter with additional chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. This final touch adds visual appeal and enhances the overall presentation. Serve these delightful appetizers chilled or at room temperature for your guests to enjoy at their leisure. How to Store and Freeze Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Fridge: Store any leftover Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. Freezer: While not ideal for freezing, you can freeze stuffed peppers for up to 1 month. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: For best results, let frozen peppers thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for optimal taste. Make-Ahead: Prepare the creamy filling a day in advance, keeping it airtight in the fridge. Stuff the peppers just before serving to keep the texture fresh and delightful. Expert Tips for Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and lemon juice for the filling; they make all the difference in flavor and brightness. Creamy Texture: Soften your goat cheese at room temperature for easier blending. This ensures a smooth and creamy Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini filling. Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste the filling before stuffing! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure optimal flavor balance. Chill Before Serving: Let the stuffed peperoncini chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Embrace Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheese types or herbs based on your preferences; creativity will delight your guests! What to Serve with Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Elevate your gathering with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the vibrant flavors of this creamy appetizer. Crispy Crostini: Perfect for spreading any leftover goat cheese filling, they offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft peperoncini. Fresh Garden Salad: A mix of crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette enhances the herbal notes of the peppers while adding refreshing brightness to your plate. Mediterranean Olives: Their salty tanginess complements the creaminess of the goat cheese, creating a well-rounded snacking experience. Pairing these two is sure to transport your guests to a sun-drenched Mediterranean cafe. Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the flavors of both the stuffed peppers and your other dishes, making it an ideal sipping companion. Homemade Hummus: Serve alongside soft pita bread for a satisfying dip, offering a contrasting texture to your meal and rich flavor balance to the goat cheese. Charcuterie Board: Add a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits for a visually stunning spread that will delight your guests and perfectly pair with the Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini. Lemon Sorbet: Finish off your meal with this light dessert, its citrusy flavor cleansing the palate after savoring the rich filling of the peppers. Stuffed Grape Leaves: Their herby rice filling mirrors the flavors of your appetizer, making for a deliciously thematic meal while adding a unique twist. Make Ahead Options These Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the herbed goat cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. The stuffed peppers, however, are best assembled just before serving to prevent the peppers from becoming too soggy. To keep things simple on the day of your gathering, drain and deseed the peperoncini ahead of time—this can be done up to 3 days prior. Just before serving, fill each pepper with the prepared cheese mixture and garnish with fresh herbs. You’ll achieve delicious, stress-free results that your guests will adore! Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Variations Feel free to let your creative culinary spirit shine with these delightful tweaks! Cream Cheese Swap: Replace goat cheese with cream cheese for a milder, smoother filling that everyone can enjoy. Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like dill or chives to match seasonal flavors or personal preferences, adding a unique touch each time you make this dish. Add Garlic: Mix in some crushed garlic with the filling to kick the flavor up a notch! This extra layer of seasoning creates a truly irresistible bite. Spice It Up: For those who crave a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the filling. They add a lovely warmth that beautifully complements the sweetness of the peperoncini. Cheesy Twist: Swap goat cheese for a melty alternative like mozzarella or cream cheese blended with parmesan for a rich, cheesy experience that is simply divine. Nutritional Boost: Add chopped spinach or finely grated zucchini into the filling for added nutrition and a pop of color without altering the delightful flavor profile. Stuffing Style: Instead of filling whole peperoncini, slice them in half lengthwise and serve as mini boats! This presentation is perfect for sharing and adds a fun twist. Mediterranean Flair: Elevate your serving by drizzling the stuffed peppers with a balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds to enhance the visual appeal while adding a sweet and tangy flavor. These variations will not only inspire your kitchen creativity but also keep your gatherings fresh and exciting! For more delicious ideas, check out my recipes for Sausage Egg Cheese or Cherry Cheese Danish. Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right peperoncini? When selecting peperoncini, look for firm, shiny peppers without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel slightly crunchy to the touch. If you have a choice, select those stored in brine, as they will have a more potent flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover stuffed peperoncini? Store any leftover Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This will help maintain their freshness and keep the filling delicious. Make sure they’re chilled before sealing for best results. Can I freeze my stuffed peperoncini? Absolutely! To freeze, individually wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or wrap in foil. They can last up to 1 month in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them, and serve chilled for the best taste. What should I do if the cheese filling is too thick? If your cheese filling turns out too thick, mix in a splash of water or extra lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency. Blend it well until creamy. You can also let the mixture sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes, which will soften it slightly for easier stuffing. Are these stuffed peppers safe for my pets? While the ingredients in Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini are safe for humans, be cautious with pets, especially dogs and cats. Goat cheese in moderation is usually fine, but avoid letting them eat the peppers themselves as the brine can be too salty for them. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice regarding your pets. Can I adjust the herbs used in the filling? Of course! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to swap basil and tarragon for herbs like dill, chives, or parsley, depending on your flavor preferences or what you have on hand. Mixing in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes can also give your filling a unique twist. Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini for Effortless Entertaining A simple recipe for Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Peperoncini, a delicious no-bake appetizer with sweet, mildly spicy peppers and a tangy, herb-infused filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 8 peppersCourse: AppetizersCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 100 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Peppers12 pieces Peperoncini drained and deseededFor the Filling8 ounces Goat Cheese softened2 tablespoons Lemon Juice freshly squeezed3 tablespoons Fresh Herbs Basil and Tarragon recommended1 teaspoon Salt to taste1 teaspoon Pepper to tasteFor Garnish2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Herbs for presentation Equipment Food processorMixing bowlServing Platter Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare the Peperoncini by draining them from their brine and cutting off the tops. Remove seeds with a small spoon and set aside.Make the Filling by blending softened goat cheese, lemon juice, and fresh herbs until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.Stuff each peperoncini with the herbed goat cheese filling using a spoon or piping bag, ensuring they are well-filled.Garnish with additional chopped fresh herbs and serve chilled or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1pepperCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor optimal flavor, use fresh ingredients and let the stuffed peppers chill before serving. They can be prepared in advance. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
