Ingredients
- 5 ripe tomatoes
- 5 bell peppers
- 2 zucchinis
- 300 g rice
- 1 bunch parsley
- 1 bunch mint
- 2-3 onions, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Olive oil
- 300 g water
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds from the caps.
- Slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the insides with a spoon, being cautious not to break the shells. Grate the tomato flesh into a mixing bowl.
- Wash the zucchinis, trim the ends, and cut a slice lengthwise. Scoop out the insides with a small spoon, and grate them into the same bowl as the tomato flesh.
- Make the Filling
- Chop the mint, parsley, onions, and garlic finely. Add them to the bowl with the grated tomatoes and zucchinis.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and a generous drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the rice (approximately 1 tablespoon per tomato) and mix well. If the vegetables are large, add 3-4 extra tablespoons of rice.
- Stuff the Vegetables
- Fill the tomatoes, peppers, and zucchinis with the rice mixture using a spoon. Arrange them neatly in a baking dish.
- Bake
- Add the water to the baking dish, along with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil over the stuffed vegetables.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180-190°C (355-375°F) for about 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Add more water during baking if needed.
- Optional Variation
- You can also use eggplants for stuffing—they are equally delicious!
A Taste of Greek Tradition
Gemista is a classic Greek dish that combines the simplicity of fresh vegetables with the aromatic flavors of herbs and rice. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side, this hearty meal is a celebration of the Mediterranean diet. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!
