These Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers are a delightful fusion of creamy and tangy flavors, making them an irresistible appetizer. The vibrant red piquante peppers, known for their mild heat and subtle sweetness, are generously filled with a rich herbed cream cheese mixture. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, from the crispness of the pepper to the smoothness of the cheese filling. Perfect for entertaining, these stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without last-minute fuss. Their bright color and elegant presentation make them a standout addition to any appetizer spread, ensuring they are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 20 Peppadew® piquante peppers, drained
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the peppers: Drain the Peppadew® piquante peppers by placing them in a sieve or colander. Turn each pepper upside down to ensure all brine is removed from their interiors.
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped parsley, chives, and garlic powder. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Stuff the peppers: Using a small spoon or a piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle, fill each piquante pepper with the herbed cream cheese mixture. Ensure each pepper is generously filled but not overflowing.
- Chill and serve: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a serving platter. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a delightful appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 70 kcal per serving | Servings: 20 stuffed peppers
Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers: A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Elegance
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s easy to prepare yet delivers an explosion of flavors, Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers is the perfect choice. These bite-sized delights combine the mild heat and tanginess of Peppadew® piquante peppers with the rich creaminess of herbed cheese, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a delicious snack, or planning a sophisticated appetizer, this dish is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
What Are Piquante Peppers?
Piquante peppers, commonly known as Peppadew® peppers, are a unique variety of South African sweet peppers that were discovered in the 1990s. They have a bright red color, mild spiciness, and a natural sweetness that makes them incredibly versatile. Unlike regular bell peppers, piquante peppers have a slightly tangy and pickled flavor, as they are often preserved in a mild brine.
Thanks to their balanced sweet and spicy taste, they have become a favorite ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean and South African dishes. They add a pop of color, flavor, and sophistication to appetizers, salads, pizzas, and even sandwiches.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
1. Perfect Flavor Combination
- The mild heat of piquante peppers pairs beautifully with the smooth and creamy texture of cream cheese.
- The fresh herbs (parsley and chives) add a refreshing and aromatic touch.
- A hint of garlic powder enhances the overall savory taste, making each bite irresistible.
2. Quick and Easy to Prepare
- This no-cook recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- No complicated cooking techniques are required—simply mix, fill, and serve!
3. Versatile and Customizable
- You can swap cream cheese for goat cheese, ricotta, or feta for a different taste.
- For a smoky touch, try adding crumbled bacon or smoked paprika.
- Want a crunch? Top with toasted nuts or breadcrumbs before serving.
4. Great for Any Occasion
- These stuffed peppers work as a party appetizer, picnic snack, or elegant dinner starter.
- Their vibrant red color makes them visually appealing, perfect for holiday spreads and special occasions.
5. Healthy and Nutritious
- Piquante peppers are low in calories and rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health.
- Cream cheese provides a source of calcium and healthy fats.
- The herbs contribute to anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 20 Peppadew® piquante peppers, drained
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Drain the Peppadew® peppers in a colander and place them upside down to remove excess brine.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, parsley, chives, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the Peppers: Use a small spoon or piping bag to carefully fill each pepper with the cream cheese mixture.
- Chill and Serve: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a platter and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Piquante Peppers
Use a piping bag to fill the peppers neatly and efficiently.
Let the flavors meld by chilling them for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve with toasted baguette slices or crackers for an added crunch.
Garnish with extra chopped herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Stuffed Piquante Peppers?
These stuffed peppers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with:
- Charcuterie boards – Serve alongside cured meats, olives, and cheeses.
- Grilled meats – Complements roasted chicken, beef, or lamb dishes.
- Mediterranean platters – Goes well with hummus, pita bread, and marinated vegetables.
- Crisp white wine or sparkling wine – The acidity cuts through the creaminess, enhancing the flavors.
Variations & Alternative Fillings
Want to try something different? Here are some variations:
Goat Cheese & Honey: Swap cream cheese for goat cheese and add a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
Feta & Olives: Mix crumbled feta with chopped black olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
Bacon & Cheddar: Crumbled crispy bacon and shredded cheddar make for a smoky, cheesy bite.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff the peppers just before serving.
Freezing? Not recommended, as cream cheese tends to lose its texture when frozen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No cooking required – Just mix, fill, and enjoy.
- Perfect balance of flavors – Creamy, tangy, slightly spicy, and fresh.
- Great for entertaining – A visually appealing and flavorful party appetizer.
- Versatile and customizable – Adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a sophisticated party snack, these Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers are guaranteed to be a hit.
Try this easy recipe today, and impress your guests with a burst of flavor in every bite!
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Stuffed Piquante Peppers are the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication, making them an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Their sweet and tangy flavor, paired with the creamy and savory filling, creates an irresistible bite-sized treat that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a holiday spread, or just looking for a quick and flavorful snack, this recipe is a must-try. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and packed with flavor—everything you need in a go-to appetizer. Plus, with their vibrant color and delicious taste, these stuffed peppers are as beautiful as they are tasty.