Simple Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Looking for a delicious and easy vegetarian dish that can be prepared in 30 minutes or less? Try this simple vegetarian stuffed peppers. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but is also rich in nutrients. Let's dive into the details of how to prepare this delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 8 medium-sized bell peppers, any color
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese (optional)

Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

In a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the onions until they become translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute or so. Stir in cooked quinoa, black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Stuff each pepper with the mixture you just prepared. You can add some cheese on top if desired. Place stuffed peppers into an oven-safe dish. Pour a little bit of water around the peppers so they cook properly without drying out.

Bake for about 30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and heated through. Serve hot right from the dish as it’s quite easy to eat this way!

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe takes around 30 minutes to prepare and serves approximately four people. It's a great option for a family dinner or even lunch with some side salad.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Vegetarian stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also packed full of good-for-you nutrients! Quinoa is a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies need. Black beans provide fiber and iron while being low in fat and high in antioxidants. Bell peppers are rich sources of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and folic acid.

The combination makes this dish both nutritious and satisfying, especially when paired with a side salad or fresh fruit. This recipe caters well to those who want to increase their vegetable intake while still enjoying a tasty meal.

Substitute Ingredients

If you prefer something different from quinoa, you could use rice as the base for the stuffing instead. You might also consider changing up your protein source in the filling by adding kidney beans or lentils. For those who want more heat, a dash of chili powder can give these peppers an extra kick.

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers Variations

To mix things up, you could try using other types of bell peppers like red, yellow, or orange ones for color variation. Another fun twist would be adding corn kernels to the mixture before stuffing the peppers; this adds another layer of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Incorporating vegetarian stuffed peppers into your weekly menu plan can add variety and health benefits without requiring too much time or effort. With its simplicity, delicious taste, and nutritional profile, it's no wonder this dish is popular among vegetarians seeking quick yet satisfying meals.