Embark on a culinary journey through the rich flavors of Greece with our featured traditional recipe, Stuffed Tomatoes & Peppers, known as Gemista. At Zante Plaza Hotels & Resorts, we believe in offering more than just accommodation – we aim to provide an immersive experience, and what better way to delve into the heart of Greek culture than through its delectable cuisine?

Transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed landscapes of the Mediterranean as we guide you through the art of crafting this iconic dish. Bursting with vibrant colors, robust aromas, and a symphony of fresh ingredients, our Stuffed Tomatoes & Peppers are a celebration of the wholesome and authentic flavors that define Greek gastronomy. Join us in recreating this classic recipe that embodies the warmth and hospitality that awaits you at our Greek-inspired haven. Indulge in every bite and savor the essence of Greece at Zante Plaza Hotels & Resorts.

Ingredients:
For the filling:
4 large tomatoes
4 bell peppers (mix of colors)
1 cup rice
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup pine nuts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon tomato paste
1 cup hot water
For the tomato sauce:
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the tomatoes and peppers and scoop out the insides, being careful not to puncture the bottoms.
In a large bowl, combine the rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, mint, pine nuts, salt, pepper, oregano, and tomato paste. Mix well.
Stuff each tomato and pepper with the rice mixture, filling them almost to the top. Place the tops back on the tomatoes.
Arrange the stuffed tomatoes and peppers in a baking dish.
For the tomato sauce, mix together crushed tomatoes, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour the sauce over the stuffed vegetables.
Add 1 cup of hot water to the bottom of the baking dish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden.
Serve the stuffed tomatoes and peppers warm, drizzled with some of the tomato sauce.
This delicious and wholesome dish showcases the flavors of Greek cuisine and is sure to be a hit among guests at Zante Plaza Hotels & Resorts. Don't forget to pair it with a side of feta cheese and a glass of local wine for an authentic Greek dining experience!

Nikos Kontonis

Executive Chef at Zante Plaza Hotels & Resorts