Pepperoni Sott'Aceto, Imbottiti(Stuffed Vinegar Peppers)
Stuffed cherry peppers with a savory mixture of anchovies, walnuts, bread crumbs, garlic, and parsley, delivering bold flavors ideal for appetizers or antipasto platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core each cherry pepper by carefully cutting into the center and removing the stem with a small, sharp knife.
- Remove the seeds from the peppers, inserting your index finger into the pepper and scraping them out.
- Be sure to keep the peppers whole and set them aside.
- In a bowl, combine chopped anchovies, chopped walnuts, bread crumbs, chopped garlic, chopped parsley, and 6 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Stuff each pepper with the prepared mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving dish and drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder option, consider using banana peppers instead of cherry peppers. If you want to add more flavor, you can include some grated Parmesan cheese to the stuffing mixture. To enhance the texture, toast the bread crumbs lightly before mixing them in. This recipe is versatile, and you can also experiment with different nuts or herbs to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers make a delightful appetizer or party snack. They pair beautifully with crusty bread and a side of Antipasto Spread for a complete antipasto platter. Additionally, serve them alongside a fresh Chilled Pasta Salad for a light meal or as part of a larger spread of Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you plan to reheat them, do so gently in a microwave or a warm oven to prevent them from becoming too soft. Alternatively, enjoy them cold as a refreshing snack or appetizer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepperoni Sott'Aceto, Imbottiti(Stuffed Vinegar Peppers) contains roughly 978 calories, with 47g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (209% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (149% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1065mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, it's best to add any additional olive oil just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for anchovies in this recipe?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or simply dislike anchovies, you can use capers for a salty flavor or finely chopped olives. Another option is to incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a rich taste without the fishiness, although it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How do I know when the cherry peppers are ripe?
Look for cherry peppers that are firm, smooth, and vibrant in color, typically red or yellow. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are filled with moisture. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes, as these may not be as fresh or flavorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).