Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these mouthwatering Southwest-Style Stuffed Peppers that will transport your taste buds to a culinary fiesta! Imagine vibrant bell peppers packed with protein-rich quinoa, hearty black beans, and a perfect blend of zesty spices that'll make your family beg for seconds. This recipe isn't just a meal - it's a flavor-packed adventure that combines healthy ingredients with irresistible southwestern flair, proving that nutritious eating can be incredibly delicious and exciting!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying with cooking spray.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow pepper vessels for stuffing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained black beans, and corn. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Gently fold half of the shredded cheese into the quinoa mixture, reserving the remaining cheese for topping.
- Carefully spoon the quinoa and bean mixture into each prepared bell pepper, filling them to the top and pressing down gently to compact the stuffing.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of each pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden and the peppers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose bell peppers that are firm and have a flat bottom to help them stand upright while baking.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the quinoa before mixing with other ingredients to enhance its nutty taste.
- If you want to add more protein, try mixing in some ground turkey or shredded chicken with the quinoa mixture.
- Use a variety of colored bell peppers for a more visually appealing dish and different subtle flavor variations.
- Make sure to drain black beans and corn thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in your stuffing.
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the quinoa mixture.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain their crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
