Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers

1 (28-ounce) can Italian tomatoes

2 zucchini, grated


1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves


1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano, plus more for sprinkling ( I USED BREADCRUMBS as I am trying hard to go dairy free)


1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil ... See More


3 cloves garlic, minced


1 teaspoon salt


1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper


4 cups chicken broth


1 1/2 cups orzo (rice-shaped pasta)


6 sweet bell peppers (red or yellow)


Directions


Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.






Pour the tomatoes into a large bowl and break apart using a pair of kitchen shears or your finger tips. Add the zucchini, mint, cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.






Meanwhile, bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the orzo and cook for 4 minutes. The orzo should be only partially cooked. Use a fine mesh sieve to transfer the orzo to the large bowl with the other vegetables. Stir the orzo into the vegetable mix to combine. Transfer the warm chicken broth to a 3-quart baking dish.






Slice the tops off the peppers and remove all ribs and seeds. Cut a very thin slice from the base to help the peppers stand up.


Place the peppers in the baking dish with the warm chicken broth. Spoon the orzo mixture into the peppers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the top of each pepper with cheese and continue baking until the cheese is golden, about 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, carefully transfer the orzo stuffed pepper to a serving plate.


I used bread crumbs instead of cheese and I used a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 table spoon of basil pesto for added flavor!