Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese: A Flavorful Charred Delight

Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese is an easy, yet luxurious dish that brings together the sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors in a simple three-step process. These grilled peppers, with their slightly charred skin and tender flesh, are the perfect canvas for the rich and creamy goat cheese filling. The addition of fresh rosemary and thyme adds an aromatic, earthy note that elevates the overall taste, and a generous sprinkling of Maldon smoked sea salt flakes delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a light snack, these grilled peppers are sure to impress.

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These mini sweet peppers are not only visually appealing, with their vibrant colors, but they are also incredibly versatile. Their natural sweetness balances perfectly with the tartness of the goat cheese, while the smokiness from the grill complements the herbaceous notes from the rosemary and thyme. The whole dish takes only about 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to prepare this dish, as the steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are minimal. The grill does most of the work, enhancing the peppers’ natural sweetness while imparting that signature charred flavor that’s so irresistible. Once the peppers are grilled, the goat cheese filling takes just seconds to prepare, and the dish is ready to serve.

Ingredients Breakdown

The ingredients for Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese are as simple as they are flavorful. Here’s a detailed look at each component:

1. Mini Sweet Peppers (1 pound) – These colorful little peppers are the star of the dish. Their sweet, crunchy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy filling, and their small size makes them an ideal vessel for stuffing with goat cheese.
2. Olive Oil (½ tablespoon) – Olive oil helps to coat the peppers before grilling, ensuring that they don’t stick to the grill and allowing the charred marks to form evenly. It also contributes to the richness of the peppers.
3. Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – These basic seasonings are key in bringing out the natural sweetness of the peppers. The kosher salt adds a coarse texture, while the black pepper adds a subtle heat.
4. Plain Goat Cheese Log (4 ounces) – Goat cheese is tangy and creamy, making it the perfect filling for the peppers. Its flavor is both bold and mellow, making it an ideal pairing for the grilled peppers.
5. Minced Fresh Rosemary & Thyme (to taste) – Fresh rosemary and thyme add an aromatic, herbal depth to the dish. They work beautifully with the goat cheese and enhance the overall flavor profile.
6. Maldon Smoked Sea Salt Flakes – Smoked sea salt flakes give the dish an added layer of flavor with their gentle smokiness. They elevate the overall taste of the grilled peppers, making each bite even more flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by preheating your grill to medium to medium-high heat. It’s important to make sure that the grill grates are scrubbed clean and well-oiled. This ensures that the peppers won’t stick and that they’ll develop beautiful grill marks.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

While the grill is heating up, cut the stems off the mini sweet peppers. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise, and carefully remove the inner ribs and seeds. You can use your fingers or a small spoon to do this. Once the peppers are prepared, place them on a large rimmed baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss the peppers gently to coat them evenly with the oil. After that, season them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This basic seasoning will help enhance the natural sweetness of the peppers while they’re grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Peppers

Once the grill is hot, place the pepper halves cut-side down onto the grill grates. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the peppers are charred to your liking. Be careful not to overcook them—just a little char and some softness is perfect. Once done, remove the peppers from the grill and transfer them to a rimmed baking pan or platter, arranging them cut-side up for a more attractive presentation.

Step 4: Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling

While the peppers are cooling slightly, prepare the goat cheese filling. Take the goat cheese log and crumble it into a small bowl. Use a spoon or fork to break it up into smaller pieces. For added flavor, mince fresh rosemary and thyme, then mix it into the goat cheese. The herbs will infuse the cheese with their earthy, aromatic notes, making it even more delicious. Once the mixture is well-combined, it’s ready to be used to fill the peppers.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers

Now, using a small knife or spoon, gently stuff each grilled pepper half with the goat cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, as the creamy goat cheese adds a rich contrast to the sweetness of the peppers. For an extra pop of flavor, sprinkle the stuffed peppers with fresh rosemary and thyme, then finish with a sprinkle of Maldon smoked sea salt flakes. These salt flakes are delicate and crunchy, and when you crush them slightly between your fingers, they’ll release their smoky aroma, enhancing the overall taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese either warm or at room temperature. These peppers make a perfect appetizer for any meal, or they can be served as a side dish. The combination of the sweet peppers, creamy goat cheese, and aromatic herbs is absolutely irresistible. Plus, the smoky finish from the grill and the added crunch of the smoked sea salt flakes make each bite a unique and flavorful experience.

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma

The flavors in Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese are beautifully balanced. The sweetness of the peppers shines through, especially when grilled, as the natural sugars caramelize and deepen in flavor. The goat cheese filling is creamy and tangy, offering a rich contrast to the lightness of the peppers. The rosemary and thyme bring a fragrant, earthy quality that ties everything together, while the smoked sea salt flakes add a surprising burst of smoky saltiness.

In terms of texture, the grilled peppers are slightly soft but still maintain a satisfying bite. The charred exterior gives them a smokiness that complements the creamy goat cheese filling, creating a delightful contrast. The goat cheese itself is smooth and velvety, providing a luxurious mouthfeel. The fresh herbs add a touch of freshness, while the Maldon smoked sea salt provides a crunchy texture that pops with every bite.

The aroma of this dish is heavenly. As the peppers grill, the smoky scent wafts through the air, and the fresh herbs mingle with the creamy goat cheese. When you take your first bite, the combination of the charred peppers, creamy cheese, and smoky salt will be nothing short of irresistible.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

While the recipe as written is delicious, there are several ways you can customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

1. Cheese Variations: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can swap it for other soft cheeses like cream cheese, ricotta, or mascarpone. Each will add a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still work well with the grilled peppers.
2. Herb Variations: If you don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme, try using other herbs such as basil, oregano, or tarragon. Each will give the dish a different aromatic profile, but they will still complement the sweetness of the peppers and the richness of the cheese.
3. Spicy Option: For a bit of heat, try adding finely chopped fresh jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the goat cheese mixture. This will give the dish a spicy kick without overpowering the natural sweetness of the peppers.
4. Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, you can use a plant-based cheese, such as cashew cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Be sure to check that your ingredients are fully vegan, especially the olive oil and herbs.

Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese are perfect as an appetizer for any summer meal. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, or a light rosé. If you’re serving them as part of a larger meal, they go well with grilled meats, seafood, or a simple salad. The smoky flavor and creamy filling make them a versatile side dish that will elevate any meal.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the peppers alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish. You can also pair them with a fresh baguette or pita for dipping in any leftover goat cheese filling.

Conclusion

Grilled Mini Sweet Peppers with Goat Cheese are a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. The sweetness of the peppers, the creaminess of the goat cheese, and the earthy notes of the fresh herbs come together beautifully. Whether you’re grilling them for a family dinner or preparing them for a summer party, these peppers are sure to be a hit. They’re quick, easy, and full of flavor, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a little something special to their meal.