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Stuffed bell peppers are a beloved dish that has made its way into kitchens around the world, celebrated for their vibrant appearance and versatility. This dish, which typically features a hollowed-out bell pepper filled with a variety of ingredients, can be tailored to suit countless tastes and dietary preferences. Among the many variations, Quinoa Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers stand out as a particularly nutritious and colorful option. This recipe not only showcases the delightful crunch of bell peppers but also highlights the wholesome goodness of quinoa, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

Discover the vibrant and nutritious Quinoa Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers, a delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. These colorful peppers are filled with a delightful mix of quinoa, black beans, corn, and fresh tomatoes, creating a satisfying vegetarian meal. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, they're not just healthy but also fun to make. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is a flavorful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while impressing your family and friends. Dive into this tasty culinary adventure!

Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color of your choice)

1 cup quinoa, thoroughly rinsed

2 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter flavor)

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed if frozen)

1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (choices include cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by cutting off the tops of the bell peppers and carefully removing the seeds and membranes. Lightly grease a baking dish (with olive oil or non-stick spray) and arrange the peppers upright in the dish.

    Cook the Quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow it to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Afterward, remove it from heat and keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes to steam. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before using.

      Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fluffed quinoa with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated and mixed.

        Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, gently fill each of the hollowed bell peppers with the quinoa mixture. Pack the filling firmly but avoid overstuffing, as the filling should be secure but not overflowing.

          Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper, allowing it to melt into the filling as it bakes.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, which helps retain moisture during baking. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the peppers are perfectly baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side to give each bite a zesty kick.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                  Presentation Tips: For a delightful presentation, serve each stuffed pepper on a colorful plate, drizzled with a little olive oil, and some additional cilantro for garnish. Adding a few lime wedges artfully arranged beside the peppers can also enhance the visual appeal. Enjoy!