Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Introduction

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious. The combination of tender, roasted bell peppers filled with a flavorful and nutritious filling of rice, beans, vegetables, and spices makes for a perfectly balanced dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option, a flavorful meal prep idea, or a vegetarian-friendly entrée for guests, these stuffed peppers are a great choice.

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for a variety of fillings based on what you have on hand. You can customize the stuffing to suit your dietary preferences, making it gluten-free, dairy-free, or even vegan. With a comforting texture, vibrant colors, and layers of bold flavor, vegetarian stuffed bell peppers make for a meal everyone can enjoy. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, require minimal hands-on time, and make for great leftovers.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of preparing these delicious stuffed peppers, share helpful tips, and offer some fun variations you can try to mix things up.

Why You’ll Love Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, whole grains, and beans, these stuffed bell peppers are a nutrient-rich meal that provides fiber, protein, and vitamins. They’re low in calories but filling, making them a great option for anyone looking to eat healthy.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of seasonings, rice, and beans creates a flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the roasted bell peppers. The dish is satisfying without being overly heavy.
• Easy to Make: These stuffed peppers come together quickly and easily, with minimal prep work involved. You can even make the filling ahead of time for a fast weeknight dinner.
• Customizable: The filling for the peppers is incredibly versatile. You can swap out ingredients based on what you like or what you have on hand. Want to make it spicier? Add some chili peppers or hot sauce. Need a protein boost? Add tofu, tempeh, or lentils.
• Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers: These stuffed peppers store well in the fridge and can be reheated for lunch or dinner the following day. They also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prepping.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (2 stuffed peppers per serving)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 8-12g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 10-12g
• Fiber: 8-10g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color: red, green, yellow, or orange)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free alternative)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-ins or Variations:

• 1 cup diced zucchini or mushrooms for added vegetables
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick
• 1 cup cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh for extra protein
• 1 tablespoon lime juice for a citrusy twist

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This moderate temperature will ensure that the bell peppers roast evenly and become tender without burning the filling.

Next, prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Be careful not to cut too much off the tops, as you want to leave enough of the pepper to hold the filling. If necessary, slice a small amount off the bottom of each pepper to create a stable base, ensuring they stand upright during baking.

Place the prepared peppers in a baking dish, cut side up, and drizzle them lightly with olive oil. This will help them roast and caramelize as they cook. Set the peppers aside while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. This step will enhance the sweetness and flavor of the onion.

Next, add the garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir the spices into the onions and cook for an additional minute to toast the spices and release their aromatic oils. This will give the filling a deep, flavorful base.

Add the diced tomatoes and corn to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once everything is well mixed, add the cooked rice and black beans. Stir in the rice and beans, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through.

Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. If you want an extra burst of flavor, you can squeeze in some fresh lime juice or add a dash of hot sauce for spice.

3. Stuff the Bell Peppers

Once the filling is ready, it’s time to stuff the bell peppers. Spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it tightly so that there’s a generous amount of filling in each one. If you have extra filling, you can serve it on the side or use it for another meal.

Once the peppers are stuffed, top each one with a sprinkle of shredded cheese. The cheese will melt as the peppers bake, adding a creamy, gooey layer to the dish. For a dairy-free version, you can use vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter option.

4. Bake the Stuffed Peppers

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are slightly caramelized at the edges.

If you prefer a slightly more charred flavor, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but be sure to watch the peppers closely to prevent them from burning.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once the stuffed peppers are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish the peppers with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the peppers with a side of your choice, such as a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or avocado slices for added richness.

Tips for Perfect Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Choose the Right Peppers: Bell peppers with a good, sturdy shape work best for stuffing. Look for large, firm peppers that will hold their shape during baking. If you’re using smaller peppers, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Customize the Filling: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the stuffing! You can add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. If you want to add more protein, try incorporating cooked lentils, tofu, or tempeh.
• Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers are great for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply stuff the peppers and bake.
• Watch the Cooking Time: Depending on the size and thickness of your bell peppers, the cooking time may vary. Make sure the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. If the peppers are thick, they may need a little extra time in the oven.
• Make Them Spicy: If you enjoy heat, add a diced jalapeño or some chili flakes to the filling. You can also drizzle the stuffed peppers with your favorite hot sauce after baking for an extra kick.

Variations of Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Mexican-Inspired Stuffed Peppers: Add taco seasoning to the filling, top with salsa, and serve with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a flavorful Tex-Mex twist.
• Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers: Swap the beans for quinoa or couscous, and add ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair.
• Greek Stuffed Peppers: Use a mixture of couscous, chickpeas, spinach, and herbs like oregano and dill. Top with a lemony tahini sauce for a fresh, bright flavor.
• Vegan Stuffed Peppers: For a vegan version, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add extra protein by including lentils or quinoa in the filling.
• Indian-Spiced Stuffed Peppers: Try using garam masala, turmeric, and cumin to flavor the rice and beans. Add peas, carrots, and spinach to the filling for a hearty, Indian-inspired dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are great for storing and reheating, making them an ideal meal prep option.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the peppers in the microwave or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze stuffed peppers for longer storage. To freeze, place the stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the peppers in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers.
• Guacamole and Chips: For a fun and flavorful side, serve the stuffed peppers with homemade guacamole and crispy tortilla chips.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts are a great side dish that balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Rice or Quinoa: If you want to add more carbs to your meal, serve the stuffed peppers with a side of rice or quinoa. This will complement the flavors of the stuffing and help round out the meal.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds a creamy and refreshing contrast to the heat of the peppers and the savory filling.

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Conclusion

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that makes a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead meal for meal prep, or a crowd-pleasing vegetarian entrée, these stuffed peppers will not disappoint. With a variety of filling options and seasonings, they’re easily customizable to suit your tastes, and they make great leftovers too. Enjoy these stuffed bell peppers as a comforting, nutritious meal that everyone at the table will love.