Stuffed bell peppers are vibrant, flavorful, and wholesome dishes where colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, and seasonings. The peppers are typically cut in half and hollowed out, then stuffed with a hearty filling made from ingredients like quinoa, rice, beans, chopped veggies (like broccolini, kale, or tomatoes), and sometimes topped with cheese or a plant-based alternative. The mixture is often seasoned with aromatic herbs, garlic, and spices, creating a balanced, satisfying meal. Once stuffed, the peppers are baked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together. They make for a delicious and nutrient-packed dish, full of bright colors and textures!
This recipe is a favorite among many of my clients, and I truly hope it becomes one of yours as well. With its delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that quickly wins over hearts and taste buds. I’m excited for you to give it a try and experience just how much it can elevate your meals!
Ingredients You Will Need
Before we get cooking, gather the following ingredients that are essential for this delicious dish:
6 bell peppers, any color
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 large shallot, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
heavy pinch black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 cups finely chopped broccolini
1-14 oz cans of fire-roasted diced tomatoes
half a bunch kale, stems removed and finely chopped
1 cup Walnut Parmesan:
1 cup walnuts
1-2 clove garlic
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp Nutritional Yeast
1/2 cup finely chopped black olives
1 generous handful each chopped parsley and basil, plus more for garnish
Preparing the Bell Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms, prepare the bell peppers. Carefully cut the tops off each pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. save the tops, you'll need them for later.
Place peppers open side down in an oven safe pan and fill with 2 inches of water. Place in oven for 40 minutes until peppers are soft and tender. While peppers are cooking, prepare filling.
Making the Walnut Parmesan
In a blender or food processor, combine 1 cup of raw walnuts, 1-2 cloves of garlic, 1/2 tsp salt, and 2 tbsp of nutritional yeast. Pulse until crumble consistency. Set aside for later.
Cooking the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water or vegetable broth for extra flavor. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside. Quinoa not only acts as a filler but also provides around 8 grams of protein per cup, making it a healthy choice.
Making the Filling
Heat large sauté pan over medium-low heat. When pan is hot add shallots and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and broccolini and continue to cook until broccolini is tender, about another 3-5 minutes.
When broccolini is tender, add the cooked quinoa, 1/2 of the walnut parmesan, diced tomatoes, olives, and herbs. Stir to combine.
Stuffing the Peppers
Using a spoon, generously fill each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining walnut parmesan.
Cover each pepper with the tops. Bake them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes.
Final Touches
Take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed bell peppers can be served alone or alongside a side salad. I recommend eating one pepper at a time, since it is very dense but feel free to enjoy more if you're up for it!
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, grains, or spices in the stuffing. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, allowing for creativity with what you have on hand.
Nutritional Benefits
Bell peppers are not only delicious but provide a wide range of health benefits. They are packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants which are essential in immune function, skin health, and help reduce inflammation. They are also rich in fiber which helps support healthy digestion and can help you feel fuller, longer. Bell peppers are also known to boost metabolism, improve heart health, and aid in weight management. Whether you enjoy them raw, roasted, or cooked, bell peppers are a nutritious and versatile addition to any diet!
A Colorful Conclusion
These stuffed bell peppers deliver a burst of flavor and nutrition, making them a great addition to any meal plan. This beautiful dish combines simplicity with satisfaction, appealing to both taste and presentation.
With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that nourishes the body and pleases the palate. So gather your bell peppers and take the plunge into deliciousness! Your taste buds will surely thank you.
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