Ingredients of Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers:
4 large bell peppers, any color
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions for Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers.
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and set them aside.
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the cooked quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.
Remove the skillet from heat and taste the quinoa mixture, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
Spoon the quinoa mixture into the hollowed-out bell peppers, packing it tightly and mounding it slightly on top.
Place the stuffed bell peppers in the prepared baking dish. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Remove the foil from the baking dish and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
Once done, remove the stuffed bell peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Garnish the Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving, if desired.
These Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only delicious but also nutritious and can be enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian main dish or a flavorful side dish. These Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers are packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables
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