Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

Stuffed bell peppers are a vibrant and versatile dish that brings a burst of color and flavor to your dining table. This vegetarian version is perfect for those who want a wholesome, satisfying meal without meat.

Packed with a hearty filling of rice, beans, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices, these peppers offer a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and nutritional value.

Beyond being delicious, stuffed bell peppers make for an excellent way to enjoy seasonal produce and customize the filling to suit your preferences. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to vegan diets easily.

Ready to dive into a healthy, colorful, and comforting vegetarian meal? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed bell peppers recipe stands out because it is:

• Nutritious and balanced: Combining protein-rich beans, fiber-packed rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables, it’s a wholesome meal in one.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or what’s on hand in your pantry.
• Perfect for meal prep: These peppers reheat beautifully and maintain their flavor and texture, making weekday lunches a breeze.
• Visually appealing: The colorful bell peppers stuffed with a vibrant filling make for an inviting presentation.
• Family-friendly: Mild spices ensure everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup black beans (cooked or canned, rinsed)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, use vegan cheese for dairy-free)
• Juice of half a lime

Equipment

• Baking dish or casserole pan (large enough to fit the peppers)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon for stuffing
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and carefully removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
2. Cook the filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. Add the cooked brown rice to the skillet along with the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh cilantro and lime juice for a bright finish.
7. Stuff each bell pepper generously with the filling mixture. Place them upright in the baking dish.
8. Top each pepper with shredded cheese if using.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

“To make this dish vegan, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Feel free to experiment with different grains like quinoa or bulgur for the filling!”

• Make it spicy: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a kick.
• Try different beans: Chickpeas or kidney beans work well as alternatives to black beans.
• Add nuts or seeds: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added texture and nutrition.
• Use fresh herbs: Basil, oregano, or parsley can be added instead of or alongside cilantro for variety.
• Make ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking for easy meal prep.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed bell peppers make a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate the experience with some complementary sides. Consider serving them alongside a crisp mixed green salad or a light cucumber and tomato salad for freshness.

For a heartier meal, pair with a side of warm crusty bread or garlic bread (try our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for a perfect match!). You can also add a dollop of guacamole or a spoonful of salsa for extra flavor.

If you want to keep the meal light and refreshing, a simple bowl of homemade vegetable soup like our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating pairs wonderfully with the stuffed peppers.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers are a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe offers a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients, vibrant colors, and savory spices, making it a hit for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Whether you follow the recipe exactly or customize it with your favorite veggies and spices, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian dishes like our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or the Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners to keep your meals exciting and flavorful.

Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!

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