Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

On a crisp autumn evening, the inviting aroma of herbs and spices wafting through the kitchen can create an instant sense of comfort. This is especially true when preparing vegetarian stuffed bell peppers, a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Packed with nutritious ingredients, these colorful peppers are not only delicious but also easy to make, providing a hearty meal that will warm your heart and soul.

Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

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These vibrant vegetarian stuffed bell peppers are packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a cozy and satisfying meal for any family dinner or gathering.

• Author: 02
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegetarian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet until softened.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff the bell peppers with the rice mixture.
6. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffed peppers.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider roasting your peppers before stuffing. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

How to Make Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers

The process of making vegetarian stuffed bell peppers is as delightful as the final dish itself. Each step brings you closer to a vibrant plate filled with wholesome goodness. Let’s jump in and make something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for your delicious stuffed bell peppers:

• 4 bell peppers (any color you love)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a nice, even bake for our stuffed gems.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Allow your peppers to stand upright for stuffing; imagine how lovely they’ll look on your dinner table.
3. In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. The smell of these two ingredients mingling creates a fragrant base that will make your heart skip a beat.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, sautéed onion and garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until the ingredients are well integrated; it’ll look like a beautiful rainbow in a dish.
5. Stuff the bell peppers with the rice mixture until they’re heaping and overflowing, then place them into a baking dish.
6. If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle cheese on top of the stuffed peppers. A good melty cheese can elevate this dish to another level of comfort.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the peppers tender.
8. After the time is up, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. That pop of green is not just for decoration; it adds a fresh twist to each hearty bite.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 7g

Serving Ideas

Vegetarian stuffed bell peppers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Picture a cozy Sunday family dinner where these beauties take center stage, alongside a simple green salad. You can even pitch them for a fun weeknight movie night, served in bowls with your favorite toppings. Drizzling some avocado yogurt or a squeeze of lime can take the flavors up a notch, making every bite a little celebration.

Storage Tips

To store leftover stuffed peppers, cover them tightly with foil or place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them before baking; just ensure to wrap them well. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

Pro Tips

1. For added depth of flavor, consider roasting your peppers for 10 minutes before stuffing them.
2. Customize your filling with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a nutrient boost.
3. If you want a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.
4. Use leftover grains such as quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.
5. Don’t be afraid to mix different cheeses; a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella can create a delightful gooey topping.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are a couple of flavor variations to try:

1. Mediterranean Twist: Substitute black beans for chickpeas and add chopped olives, feta cheese, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
2. Southwestern Style: Incorporate diced tomatoes, green chilies, and a splash of lime juice into the stuffing for a zesty southwestern version. A handful of chopped fresh cilantro mixed in adds vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I make vegetarian stuffed bell peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling mixture and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just keep the stuffed peppers covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with vegetarian stuffed bell peppers?
They pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or warm crusty bread. You can also add a side of guacamole or salsa for a festive touch.

How do I know when the bell peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the cheese on top (if used) should be bubbly and golden.

What if I have leftover filling?
Leftover stuffing can be served as a delicious side dish or added to a salad. It’s nutritious and packed with flavor!

As you savor each bite of these cozy vegetarian stuffed bell peppers, remember that cooking is not just about the food—it’s about the memories we create and the love we share around the table. Enjoy these moments with family and friends, because every meal is an opportunity to connect.