Today I’ve got something a little different for you—but still right in that category of big flavor, simple prep, and maximum crowd-pleasing power. Let me introduce you to one of my absolute favourite party bites: Tuna Stuffed Peppers. Specifically, Peppadew peppers.
What Are Peppadew Peppers?
Peppadew is actually a brand name, originally from South Africa and hugely popular in Italy and other Mediterranean countries, known for its mildly spicy, sweet pickled red peppers. These things are magic in a jar.
They’re:
- Small and round (perfect for stuffing),
- Sweet and tangy with just the right amount of heat,
- Packed in a light vinegar brine that keeps them fresh and zippy.
You can usually find them in jars in the pickles or deli section of your supermarket.
Jump to:
Ingredients
If you like preparing Italian food, chances are you already have all of these ingredients on hand. If not, they are all very easily sources.
- peppadew peppers
- canned tuna
- mayonnaise
- brine from the peppadew peppers
- capers
- scallions (spring onions)
- lemon juice
- olive oil
- Salt and pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
Step by Step Photos
There isn't much to do for this tuna stuffed peppers recipe. Check out my step by step photos to see how easy it is to make this Italian classic.
- Step 1: Place all of the ingredients, except for the peppers in a food processor.
- Step 2: Blend all of these ingredients until smooth.
- Step 3: Fill each of the peppers with the tuna mixture. I usually do this with the handle of a spoon as it's smaller and easier to fill the small peppers.
- Step 4: Serve them up on their own or as part of a larger anti-pasta platter.
Why Tuna?
Because it works and beautifully so.
You’ve got the sweet-tart kick of the Peppadews and the creamy richness of a good tuna mayo filling.
Add a few pantry extras like capers, lemon zest, or herbs, and it becomes this incredibly moreish combo that punches way above its weight.
It’s the kind of bite that makes you think, why am I not eating this every week?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Super versatile: Swap the tuna for chicken, feta, or even a veggie-friendly hummus mix.
Quick and easy: 10 minutes flat, no stove required.
Perfect make-ahead dish: Great for parties, picnics, and barbecues.
Big flavours in small bites: Creamy, tangy, salty, and sweet — all in one mouthful.
Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are some simple ways to change the filling:
No mayo version: Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese instead for a lighter feel.
Mediterranean style: Add chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta to the tuna mix.
Spicy version: Add harissa paste, sriracha, or chopped fresh chilli.
Herby twist: Try fresh dill, chives, or basil for a different flavour profile.
Equipment
You don’t need much for this one:
Serving platter
A small mixing bowl or food processor
Fork or spoon
Small teaspoon or piping bag (for stuffing)
Storage
These keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Don’t freeze them — the mayo doesn’t hold up well.
Top Tip
Feel free to work up to 2 days ahead of cooking. Then you can just bring these out and watch how much people love them and beg you for the recipe.
Related
For a light lunch, team this fried cauliflower with one of these.
Looking for a good main dish to go with your fried cauliflower?
Try all of these. You'll love them!
Recipe
Italian Tuna Stuffed Peppadew Peppers
These tuna stuffed peppers could not be easier to prepare. They are packed with flavor and sure to impress as a snack or part of an Italian anti-pasta platter.
Ingredients
- 1 x 400g bottle of peppadew peppers
- 2 tins of tuna
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of the brine from the peppadew peppers
- 10 capers
- 2 spring onions - finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients except for the peppadew peppers, salt and pepper in a food processor.
- Blend until the tuna is smooth but be careful not to over process.
- Check for seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Using a small spoon, fill each of the peppadew peppers with the tuna blend.
- If you have any leftover tuna, eat it. I don't like waste.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 111Total Fat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 336mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 1gSugar: 2gProtein: 7g
