If you’re looking for a colorful and nutritious meal, these easy stuffed bell peppers are the perfect choice! Packed with flavor and healthy ingredients, they make a delightful main dish that everyone will love. Ideal for meal prep or a family dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to get started on this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed bell pepper) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 7g fat, and 10g fiber. This information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix the filling ingredients until well combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, pressing down gently.
6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
7. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute quinoa with rice, or use ground turkey or beef instead of beans for a meatier option. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed bell peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a side of creamy avocado dip. You can also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
Storage and Reheating
To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the peppers; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Make sure to season the filling well for maximum flavor.
– Avoid overstuffing, as the filling may spill out during cooking.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Allow the dish to cool before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
– Add spices to the filling to suit your taste preferences.
– Consider adding chopped nuts for a crunchier texture.
– Use leftover filling in salads or wraps for a quick lunch option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, frozen bell peppers can be used, but they may be softer after cooking. Thaw them before stuffing.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the filling should be hot throughout.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers, refrigerate, and bake them when ready to serve.
What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
They pair well with salads, bread, or simple sides like rice or quinoa.
Are stuffed peppers healthy?
Yes, they are packed with vegetables, protein, and fiber, making them a nutritious meal choice.
Can I add meat to the filling?
Certainly! Ground turkey, beef, or chicken can be added to the filling for extra protein.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
These easy stuffed bell peppers are not only customizable but also a nutritious and delicious meal option. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy making this colorful dish that is sure to please everyone at the table!
Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers any color
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese optional
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the filling ingredients until well combined.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the filling mixture, pressing down gently.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
