Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a colorful and flavorful dish that brings together fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and savory spices. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or a fun way to enjoy veggies, these stuffed peppers will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!
Ingredients
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed pepper) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 7g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the 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 rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, packing it tightly.
6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
7. Pour a little water into the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper.
10. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this recipe by substituting quinoa for rice, using ground turkey or beef instead of beans, or adding different vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Feel free to experiment with spices to suit your taste!
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed peppers pair well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of avocado slices. They can also be enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pre-cooking the rice or quinoa.
- Overstuffing the peppers, causing them to burst.
- Skipping the steaming step; it makes the peppers tender.
- Using too much salt; season gradually.
- Not letting the peppers cool before serving; they can be very hot.
Helpful Tips
- Choose peppers that stand upright for easy stuffing.
- Experiment with different grains for variety.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
- Mix in some chopped nuts for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peppers for stuffing?
Yes, you can use frozen peppers, but make sure to thaw and drain them before stuffing, as excess moisture can make them soggy.
What other fillings can I use?
You can fill peppers with a variety of ingredients, including ground meat, lentils, or even a mix of grains and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How long can I store stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers.
Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and filling ahead of time, store them separately, and then bake them just before serving.
Are stuffed peppers healthy?
Yes, stuffed peppers are nutritious, providing a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, especially when filled with whole grains and vegetables.
Conclusion
Stuffed peppers are a versatile and appealing dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. With endless variations and a healthy profile, they make for a perfect meal option. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create your perfect stuffed pepper dish!
Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, packing it tightly.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Pour a little water into the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
