5 Stuffed Romano Pepper Recipes That Go Beyond Rice
Romano peppers are one of the most underrated gems of the vegetable aisle. With their long, tapered shape, vibrant red colour, and incredible natural sweetness, they’re perfect for stuffing—and far more flavourful than your average bell pepper.
In this guide, we’ll explore five inventive and delicious stuffed romano peppers recipes that go far beyond the usual rice-and-mince combo. Whether you’re after something vegetarian, protein-rich, low-carb or simply full of flavour, these recipes have you covered.
Learn how to master more Mediterranean classics in our Slow Cooker Fish Recipes.
🌶️ Why Use Romano Peppers?
Romano peppers are:
- Sweeter and more tender than bell peppers
- Thinner-skinned, so they roast beautifully
- Longer and slimmer, making them perfect for portioned servings
- Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants
Their curved shape and gentle sweetness lend themselves to a wide range of fillings—from Mediterranean to Middle Eastern, and even brunch-friendly twists.
🧀 1. Roasted Romano Peppers with Feta, Spinach & Pine Nuts
Perfect for: Mediterranean light lunch or starter
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Ingredients:
- 2 large romano peppers, halved lengthwise
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- A handful of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted
- Olive oil, black pepper, and lemon zest
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 200°C.
- Mix spinach, feta, pine nuts and lemon zest.
- Fill pepper halves, drizzle with olive oil.
- Roast for 20 mins until tender and golden.
Why it works: Tangy, creamy, slightly nutty, and loaded with flavour in each bite.
🥘 2. Spiced Lamb & Couscous Stuffed Romano Peppers
Perfect for: Moroccan-inspired dinner
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 25 mins
Ingredients:
- 200g minced lamb
- ½ cup cooked couscous
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- ½ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp chopped apricots or raisins
- Coriander and yoghurt to serve
Instructions:
- Cook lamb with garlic and spices. Stir in couscous and dried fruit.
- Stuff peppers and bake at 190°C for 25 minutes.
- Serve with coriander and a dollop of yoghurt.
Why it works: Sweet, savoury, aromatic—a rich fusion of textures.
🥚 3. Brunch Peppers: Egg & Cheddar Bakes in Romano Halves
Perfect for: Weekend brunch
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 20 mins
Ingredients:
- 2 romano peppers, halved
- 4 medium eggs
- 50g grated mature cheddar
- Spring onions and cherry tomatoes
Instructions:
- Place pepper halves on baking tray.
- Crack one egg into each half. Top with cheese and spring onions.
- Bake at 180°C for 18–20 mins until eggs set.
- Add tomatoes fresh or roasted.
Why it works: Low-carb, protein-rich and visually beautiful for breakfast or brunch.
🥬 4. Vegan Lentil & Walnut Stuffed Romano Peppers
Perfect for: Plant-based dinner
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 30 mins
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ cup walnuts, chopped
- Tomato purée and parsley
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and garlic, add lentils, spices and walnuts.
- Mix in 1 tbsp tomato purée, season.
- Fill peppers and bake at 190°C for 30 mins.
Why it works: Meaty texture, bold flavour, and entirely plant-based.
🍠 5. Sweet Potato, Chilli & Goat Cheese Peppers
Perfect for: Comfort food with a kick
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 25 mins
Ingredients:
- 1 small sweet potato, roasted and mashed
- 50g goat cheese
- 1 red chilli, finely chopped
- Olive oil, sea salt
Instructions:
- Mix sweet potato mash with chilli and a pinch of salt.
- Fill peppers, top with crumbled goat cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes at 200°C until bubbly and golden.
Why it works: Creamy, spicy, sweet—ideal for cosy evenings.
🔪 How to Prepare Romano Peppers for Stuffing
- Wash thoroughly and pat dry.
- Slice lengthwise and remove seeds and membrane.
- Use a baking tray lined with parchment.
- Lightly oil the skins for a golden, blistered finish.
- Always preheat your oven for even roasting.
Tip: For extra char, finish under the grill for the last 2–3 minutes.
🌱 Health Benefits of Romano Peppers
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | Boosts immunity and skin health |
| Antioxidants | Helps fight inflammation |
| Low calories | ~37 kcal per pepper |
| Fibre-rich | Aids digestion and satiety |
🧑🍳 Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Pair with couscous or quinoa
- Serve with Greek yoghurt, tahini, or salsa verde
- Side of rocket salad or grilled halloumi
- Excellent as part of a tapas spread or picnic platter
🔍 FAQs About Romano Peppers
1. Can I eat romano peppers raw?
Yes! They’re delicious raw in salads or with hummus.
2. Are romano peppers the same as bell peppers?
No. Romano peppers are longer, sweeter, and thinner-skinned.
3. Can I freeze stuffed romano peppers?
Yes, once baked and cooled. Reheat in oven to retain texture.
4. Where can I buy romano peppers in the UK?
Most supermarkets carry them year-round, especially in summer.
5. Are romano peppers spicy?
No—they’re mild and sweet. Great for all ages and palates.
Final Thoughts
Romano peppers are more than just a sweet alternative to bell peppers—they’re an elegant, flavourful vessel for creative fillings. Whether you’re craving something light, hearty, spicy or cheesy, these five stuffed recipes prove there’s so much more than rice when it comes to filling a pepper.
So next time you’re in the produce aisle, skip the standard capsicums and pick up a few romano peppers. Your taste buds will thank you.
