Vegetable and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

These Vegetable and Cheese Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful blend of quinoa, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, creating a hearty and nourishing meal. Perfect for a cozy supper, this dish is both colorful and satisfying, making it a nutritious option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 large bell peppers - any color
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small zucchini - diced
• 1 small carrot - grated
• 1/2 cup corn kernels - fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup black beans - canned, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic - minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley - for garnish

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced zucchini, grated carrot, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa with the sautéed vegetables and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top each pepper with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
• High in protein due to quinoa and cheese, supporting muscle health.

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