Get ready to transform your dinner game with these mouthwatering Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds! 🌶️ Imagine a vibrant dish that combines the protein-packed punch of quinoa, the creamy richness of melted cheese, and the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired seasonings - all nestled inside a colorful bell pepper. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that brings the fiesta right to your dinner table in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the bell peppers by washing them thoroughly, then carefully slice each pepper in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, drained black beans, corn, cumin, and half of the salsa. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create the stuffing.
- Generously fill each bell pepper half with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently to pack the stuffing firmly.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the remaining salsa over and around the stuffed peppers to keep them moist during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced avocado before serving.
Tips
- Choose bell peppers that are firm and have a flat bottom to help them stand upright while baking.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the quinoa briefly in a dry pan before cooking to enhance its nutty taste.
- If you want to make this dish even more nutritious, try adding diced zucchini or spinach to the quinoa mixture.
- Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a visually stunning presentation.
- Make sure to drain black beans and corn thoroughly to prevent your stuffing from becoming too watery.
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the quinoa mixture.
- Meal prep tip: You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them, baking just before serving.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 312kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
