Stuffed Bell Peppers with Chickpeas and Lentils

Stuffed bell peppers filled with a hearty mixture of chickpeas and lentils create a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for a late-night craving. This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 small onion - diced
• 2 cloves garlic - minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley - chopped
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the cooked chickpeas, lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
7. Stuff each bell pepper with the chickpea and lentil mixture, packing it tightly.
8. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly (if using).
11. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 18 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in plant-based protein from chickpeas and lentils.
• Rich in dietary fiber which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

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