Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Vegetables

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Vegetables is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines wholesome ingredients for a delightful midnight snack. Each pepper is packed with protein-rich quinoa, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a healthy choice that satisfies cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients

• Bell peppers - 2 large (any color)
• Quinoa - 1/2 cup (uncooked)
• Water or vegetable broth - 1 cup
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Onion - 1 small, diced
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Zucchini - 1 small, diced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Corn kernels - 1/2 cup (fresh or frozen)
• Black beans - 1/2 cup (canned, drained and rinsed)
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh cilantro - 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
• Lime - 1, for serving

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water and combine it with water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, prepare the bell peppers by cutting the tops off and removing the seeds. Set aside.
4. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced zucchini and carrot to the skillet, cooking for another 5 minutes until tender.
6. Stir in the corn, black beans, cooked quinoa, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
7. Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro if using.
8. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa and vegetable mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
9. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.
11. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbs: 56 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Rich in antioxidants from colorful vegetables.

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