Stuffed peppers are a timeless dish that brings both vibrant color and wholesome nutrition to your dining table. This veg stuffed peppers recipe is a delightful twist featuring a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and hearty grains, all tucked inside sweet bell peppers.
Perfect as a main course or a side, these peppers are as visually appealing as they are flavorful, making them ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this recipe offers a delicious balance of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize the stuffing with your favorite vegetables or grains and even adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters. Ready to impress your taste buds and nourish your body?
Let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veg stuffed peppers recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients that provide a nutrient-rich meal in every bite.
The combination of bell peppers, quinoa, mushrooms, and beans ensures a good mix of protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.
The recipe is incredibly flexible and easy to prepare — perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. It stores well, making it great for leftovers or prepping ahead.
Plus, the colorful presentation makes it a standout dish at any table, making your meal both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops cut off and seeds removed)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice)
- 1 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded vegan cheese (optional)
Equipment
- Baking dish or casserole pan
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Cook the quinoa according to package instructions if you haven’t already done so. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic, mushrooms, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and any liquid evaporates.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, and cooked quinoa. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, to combine flavors.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped cilantro if desired.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the vegetable and quinoa mixture, pressing down lightly to pack the filling.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If you like, sprinkle vegan cheese on top of each pepper for a melty finish.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and slightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your nutritious, colorful stuffed peppers!
Tips & Variations
Tip: If you want extra flavor, roast the bell peppers for 10 minutes before stuffing to soften them slightly.
Variation: Try mixing in cooked lentils or chopped spinach to boost protein and greens.
Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a kick.
Cheese alternatives: Use crumbled feta, shredded mozzarella, or leave out cheese for a vegan option.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 stuffed pepper) |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 10 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fiber | 9 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Sodium | 320 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers alongside a crisp green salad or some warm crusty bread for a complete meal. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of guacamole or a fresh salsa for extra zest.
For a heartier feast, consider adding a side of roasted potatoes or a light soup. If you want more inspiration for plant-based meals, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or try our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.
Conclusion
This veg stuffed peppers recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a colorful, nutrient-packed meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
The blend of fresh vegetables, savory spices, and hearty grains makes this recipe a versatile favorite for all seasons.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing meals ahead for a busy week, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, their beautiful presentation makes them perfect for entertaining or a special dinner.
Don’t forget to explore more plant-based inspiration like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to keep your meals exciting and wholesome!
📖 Recipe Card: Veg Stuffed Peppers
Description: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of vegetables and rice, baked to perfection. A healthy and satisfying vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, corn, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
- Mix cooked rice into the vegetable mixture.
- Stuff each pepper with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 40 g
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