Italian Style Stuffed Peppers

[cappuccino]

(NC)—A wonderful vegetarian meal or side dish that can be microwaved if you prefer.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 18 minutes

2 large red, yellow or green peppers 2

2 tbsp olive oil 25 mL

1/4 cup Each diced celery and onion 50 mL

1 lb mushrooms, finely chopped 500 mL

4 cloves garlic, minced 4

1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 125 mL

1/4 cup Each grated Parmesan cheese and ketchup 50 mL

1 tsp Each dried basil and oregano 5 mL

1 cup grated mozzarella, divided or crumbled feta 250 mL

Cut peppers in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat, sauté celery and onion for 1-2 minutes, or until softened. Add mushrooms and sauté another 3-4 minutes or until starting to brown; stir in garlic and remove from heat. Stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan, ketchup, basil, oregano and half the mozzarella. Spoon mixture into peppers and place in shallow baking pan or casserole. Bake 15 –18 minutes in 400°F (200°C) oven or until peppers are tender; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella. Return to oven 1-2 minutes just to melt cheese.

Makes 4 servings

Tip: Chop celery, onion and mushrooms in food processor to save time.

Microwave Method: Place stuffed peppers in shallow microwaveable casserole, cover and cook on high for 5-8 minutes or until softened and heated through (time varies depending on size of peppers and wattage of oven) top with cheese and microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes to melt cheese.

For more delicious recipe ideas visit Mushrooms Canada at www.mushrooms.ca.

Credit: www.newscanada.com