Stuffed Bell Peppers (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Fresh Veggies
01 -
4 big bell peppers (go for any colors you like: green, orange, yellow, or red)
02 -
1/2 cup zucchini, chopped up small
03 -
2 cloves of minced garlic
04 -
1/2 cup mushrooms, diced
05 -
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
→ Pantry Essentials
06 -
1 cup cooked rice (any kind you enjoy - white, brown, or wild)
07 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
08 -
1/2 cup canned black beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
09 -
1/2 cup diced tomatoes from a can, liquids drained
→ Spices
10 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
11 -
1/2 teaspoon of salt
12 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
→ Extras
14 -
Optional: 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
15 -
Fresh parsley or cilantro for sprinkling on top
# Instructions:
01 -
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the peppers and clean out the insides. For softer peppers, either blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water or pop them in the oven for 10 minutes as a head start.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and onions, cooking until they smell amazing, about 2 minutes. Then throw in the mushrooms and zucchini and cook until soft. Mix in the beans, tomatoes, and spices, and let it all cook for 3 more minutes to blend those flavors.
03 -
Stir the cooked rice into your veggie mix and make sure it’s evenly combined. Give it a taste and tweak the seasonings if needed. Fill the hollow peppers generously, and if you like, sprinkle some cheese on top.
04 -
Pour some water or tomato sauce into the baking dish to keep things moist, and set the peppers upright in the dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes so the tops get bubbly or golden if you’ve added cheese.
# Notes:
01 -
These vibrant stuffed peppers are a fully vegetarian dish that can be tailored with your choice of beans, grains, or cheese.
02 -
Great for planning ahead - whip up the filling early, then stuff and bake when you're ready to eat!