Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Serving Size: 4

This recipe is high in fiber, heart-healthy, and diabetes-friendly. The quinoa provides a complete protein, and the combination of beans and vegetables offers a significant fiber boost, helping with blood sugar management. These stuffed peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal for any occasion!

Recipe by: Mayumi Tavalero

Cook Times

Active Prep15

Hands-On Cook0

Hands-Off Cook25

Passive0

Recipe Serving Size4

Cooking Tools Required

Baking Pan, Colander, Cutting board, Measuring cups and spoons, Mixing bowls, Mixing spoon, Oven, Pot with lid, Sharp Knives, Top Stove

Ingredients

4 piece large bell peppers any color
1 cup quinoa uncooked
2 cup water
15 ounce canned black beans no salt added rinsed and drained
1/2 cup frozen corn kernels
15 ounce canned diced tomatoes drained
1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional:

1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Prepare the Bell Peppers: While the quinoa is cooking, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.
Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the quinoa mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly and mounding it on top.
Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed peppers for 25–30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender. For a slightly crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Reheating Instructions

Heat in the microwave on medium power until heated through.

Nutrition