Description
These Vegetarian Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are vibrant, wholesome, and satisfying, making them perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
- Bell Peppers: Choose a variety of colors for an appealing presentation. Red, yellow, and green all work beautifully.
- Quinoa: A high-protein grain that serves as the base for the stuffing. Rinse your quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove bitterness.
- Black Beans: Canned or cooked black beans add protein and fiber to the dish. Rinse and drain if using canned.
- Corn: Fresh or frozen corn adds sweetness and crunch to the filling. Frozen corn can be used directly without thawing.
- Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for flavoring. Adjust spices according to your taste.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonderfully on top for a cheesy finish.
- Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley for garnish adds a touch of freshness before serving.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water, then cook it according to package instructions. Typically, it cooks in about 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the quinoa mixture. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the bottom of the baking dish to ensure moisture during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs before serving and enjoy!
Notes
- Choose Ripe Peppers: Look for firm, glossy, and unblemished skin on the peppers for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped spinach, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Meal Prep: Make a double batch and freeze the extras for busy nights when you need a healthy meal in a hurry!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Vegetarian, Quinoa, Stuffed Peppers