Gemista (Stuffed Vegetables)

[Ruth_]

Gemista is a beloved Greek dish featuring vegetables like tomatoes and peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat, then baked to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 4 large tomatoes
• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup rice (uncooked)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 lb ground beef or pork (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice off the tops of the tomatoes and peppers, scoop out the insides, and set aside the flesh of the tomatoes for the filling.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic. Add the rice, reserved tomato flesh, parsley, mint, salt, and pepper (and meat, if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stuff the vegetables with the rice mixture, place their tops back on, and arrange them in a baking dish.
4. Pour the tomato puree around the vegetables, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting occasionally with the sauce.
5. Serve warm, with crusty bread or a side of yogurt.

Gemista is a comforting, healthy, and aromatic dish that showcases the best of Greek home cooking!

 

[jannababe]

Gemista looks absolutely delicious! I love how colorful and healthy this dish is with all the stuffed veggies. It seems like a perfect meal for any occasion. I can’t wait to try making this and enjoy the flavorful filling!

 

[Mui]

Gemista sounds super tasty and packed with flavor! Love that it’s a healthy, cozy dish—definitely need to try it soon! Thanks for sharing the recipe, totally got me craving that combo of rice, herbs, and tomato goodness .