Deliciously Healthy Quinoa-Stuffed Peppers
Quinoa-stuffed peppers make for a satisfying and nutritious meal that is both easy to prepare and full of flavour. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with a variety of vegetables and herbs, all stuffed into vibrant bell peppers and baked to perfection. Whether you are looking for a meat-free option or simply want to incorporate more wholesome ingredients into your diet, these quinoa-stuffed peppers are sure to become a favourite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small zucchini, diced
– 1 small carrot, grated
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup peas
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Peppers:
– Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
– Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside.
– Place the peppers upright in a baking dish and set aside.
2. Cooking the Quinoa:
– Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness.
– In a saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
– Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
3. Preparing the Filling:
– In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
– Add the diced zucchini, grated carrot, diced tomato, corn kernels, peas, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
– Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Assembling and Baking:
– Combine the cooked quinoa with the vegetable mixture.
– Spoon the quinoa and vegetable mixture into each of the prepared bell peppers until they are filled to the top.
– Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
5. Serving:
– Once baked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
– These quinoa-stuffed peppers can be enjoyed on their own as a filling meal or paired with a side salad for a complete and balanced dinner.
Quinoa-stuffed peppers are not only a delicious and healthy option for a meat-free meal but also a great way to enjoy a variety of colourful vegetables in one dish. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling with your favourite vegetables and herbs. With its satisfying texture and wholesome ingredients, these quinoa-stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit at your next mealtime.