Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Easy Dinner Recipes
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and healthy dish, perfect for any meal. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful spices, these peppers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.
These Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are a family favorite. With vibrant colors and a wholesome filling, they bring a touch of comfort to your dinner table. Perfect for using up leftover vegetables, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A colorful and nutritious meal packed with flavor
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and grains
- Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Nutritional Benefits
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are not just a feast for the eyes; they are also a powerhouse of nutrition. Each pepper is filled with a variety of vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The inclusion of black beans adds protein and fiber, making this dish satisfying and heart-healthy.
Quinoa is another star ingredient in this recipe. It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans looking to boost their protein intake. Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free, making these stuffed peppers a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Customizing Your Stuffed Peppers
One of the greatest advantages of Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers is their versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy most. Feel free to swap out the black beans for kidney beans, or add diced zucchini and spinach for extra greens. If you prefer grains other than quinoa, brown rice or farro can also be delicious alternatives.
You can also adjust the spices to your taste. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate feta cheese and olives into the filling. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are an ideal solution for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, store them in the fridge, and enjoy them throughout the week. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.
These stuffed peppers can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply prepare and stuff the peppers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you always have a nutritious meal ready to go!
Ingredients
Stuffed Peppers Ingredients
- 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 paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Enjoy your stuffed peppers with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Instructions
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 large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
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, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.
These stuffed peppers are perfect for leftovers, and they taste even better the next day!
Serving Suggestions
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers can be served as a standalone dish or accompanied by a variety of sides. A light green salad, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette, complements the richness of the stuffed peppers beautifully. You could also pair them with a refreshing yogurt sauce or guacamole for added flavor.
For a more substantial meal, serve these peppers alongside brown rice or quinoa. This will enhance the nutritional profile and add extra fiber to your plate. Additionally, consider serving a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious spread.
Storage Tips
To ensure the freshness of your Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their quality for up to four days. When reheating, try to do so gently to avoid overcooking the peppers, which can lead to a mushy texture.
If you decide to freeze the stuffed peppers, it’s essential to let them cool completely before wrapping. Label each package with the date, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer. Properly stored, they can last for up to three months, making them an excellent option for quick meals on busy days.
Substitutions and Variations
If you're looking to lighten up the dish, consider using cauliflower rice instead of quinoa. This low-carb alternative adds volume while keeping the flavor intact. You can also reduce the cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version without sacrificing taste.
Vegetarians can easily adapt this recipe by incorporating additional plant-based proteins such as lentils or chickpeas. For a Mediterranean flair, try adding sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts to the filling. These simple substitutions can elevate the dish and cater to different dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of rice instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with brown rice, white rice, or any other grain you prefer.
→ How can I make this recipe vegan?
Simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
They pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or even a simple yogurt dip.
→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers
Savory Vegetable Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and healthy dish, perfect for any meal. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful spices, these peppers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Stuffed Peppers Ingredients
- 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 paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 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 large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
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, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g