Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Warm & Hearty Dishes
Deliciously filled bell peppers with a medley of vegetables and spices, perfect for a wholesome meal.
These Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are a delightful way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a single dish. Bursting with flavor and nutrition, they are perfect for any meal of the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Loaded with nutritious vegetables and spices
- A colorful and eye-catching dish
- Versatile - customize with your favorite ingredients
- Great for meal prep or leftovers
A Nutritious Delight
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are not just visually appealing; they are also packed with nutrients. Each pepper is filled with a wholesome mixture of quinoa, black beans, and colorful vegetables. This dish is a fantastic way to incorporate a variety of vitamins and minerals into your diet, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Quinoa, a complete protein, serves as the perfect base for this stuffing, complementing the fiber-rich black beans and corn. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying meal that keeps you full for longer, while also providing essential nutrients that support overall health.
Customization and Versatility
One of the best features of Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the quinoa for rice or farro, or add in different vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. This flexibility ensures that you can make this recipe time and time again without it feeling repetitive.
Additionally, these stuffed peppers can cater to various diets, whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or looking for a protein boost. Simply adjust the fillings and toppings accordingly to create a dish that everyone at the table can enjoy.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick, healthy meal throughout the week. Simply bake them in advance, then reheat when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also ensures you have nutritious meals ready to go, making it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan.
Moreover, they can be frozen for even longer storage. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw and reheat for a convenient and satisfying meal that tastes just as good as when it was first made.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious stuffed peppers:
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are prepared before you begin stuffing the peppers.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your savory stuffed peppers:
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
Make the Filling
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it in gently. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.
Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your savory stuffed peppers hot, as a main course or a side dish!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the filling ingredients according to your preference. Adding diced tomatoes or different spices can enhance the flavor.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
To ensure your stuffed peppers cook evenly, choose peppers that are similar in size. This will help them bake uniformly and prevent any from being undercooked or overcooked. Additionally, consider parboiling the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them. This extra step can make them more tender and enhance their flavor.
Another tip is to taste the filling before stuffing the peppers. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure that every bite is bursting with flavor. Don't be afraid to get creative with your spices or add a touch of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed peppers can be served on their own, but they pair beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple vinaigrette-dressed salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
You can also elevate your presentation by drizzling the stuffed peppers with a tangy sauce or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Fresh avocado slices or a sprinkle of lime juice can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices in the filling.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, it's best to use the oven to maintain the texture of the peppers, but the microwave can work in a pinch. Just be sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out.
For frozen stuffed peppers, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This method helps them heat more evenly and retains the quality of the dish. Whether you're enjoying them fresh or reheated, these stuffed peppers are a delicious and healthy option.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, feel free to use any type of bell pepper or even other peppers like poblano for a spicier kick.
→ Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I substitute for quinoa?
You can substitute quinoa with rice or couscous if you prefer.
→ Are these stuffed peppers vegan?
Yes, as long as you omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
Deliciously filled bell peppers with a medley of vegetables and spices, perfect for a wholesome meal.
What You'll Need
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it in gently. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the filling.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the filling ingredients according to your preference. Adding diced tomatoes or different spices can enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 8g