Vegetarian Stuffed Pano Peppers

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These vegetarian stuffed peppers are a delicious and healthy meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. Packed with flavor and nutrients, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to match your taste or what’s in your pantry.
• Nutritious: Loaded with veggies, grains, and plant-based protein, it’s a wholesome dish.
• Easy to Prep: Simple steps and minimal cleanup make it a stress-free dinner option.

Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a versatile and nutritious dish that can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. This vegetarian version is packed with flavorful ingredients, making it a satisfying meal for everyone.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add black beans, corn, quinoa, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in half the tomato sauce and half the cheese (if using).
4. Stuff the peppers with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Pour remaining tomato sauce over the peppers.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes:

• For a vegan version, omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Substitute quinoa with rice or lentils for variation.

Time:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~250 per serving
• Cuisine: Vegetarian/Mediterranean

Nutrition

These vegetarian stuffed peppers are a nutritious and flavorful meal, packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my vegetarian stuffed peppers with a mix of sides, like fluffy quinoa or a crisp green salad, to keep the meal light yet satisfying. For drinks, I often go with a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea to balance the rich flavors. What do you usually serve with yours?

Side Dish Options

Pairing vegetarian stuffed peppers with the right side dishes can really make the meal shine. I love getting creative with sides, like a tangy quinoa salad or roasted sweet potato wedges. For a fresh touch, I’ll toss together a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. If I’m feeling indulgent, garlic bread or cheesy polenta are my go-to serving suggestions. Sometimes, I’ll even whip up a quick cucumber and tomato salsa for a zesty contrast. These sides not only complement the peppers but also add variety to the plate, making the whole meal feel balanced and satisfying.

Beverage Pairings

After enjoying the vibrant flavors of vegetarian stuffed peppers and their perfect side dishes, it’s time to think about what to sip alongside this hearty meal. I personally love a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the richness of the peppers. If you’re into reds, a light Pinot Noir works wonders, complementing the smoky notes without overwhelming the dish. For beer options, I’d go for a revitalizing lager or a slightly hoppy pale ale—it’s like a flavor-high five! And if you’re avoiding alcohol, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon is always a cheerful choice. Cheers!