Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

4 servings
These healthy stuffed peppers are filled with a flavorful mix of rice, beans, and vegetables and topped with melty cheese. They're naturally gluten-free; see the notes below to make them vegan.

Ingredients

  • red bell peppers
    4
  • extra-virgin olive oil
    2 tbsp
  • yellow onion

    chopped

    1 medium
  • jalapeño pepper

    stemmed and finely chopped

    1
  • garlic cloves

    chopped

    4
  • tomato paste
    2 tbsp
  • chili powder
    2 tsp
  • ground cumin
    2 tsp
  • sea salt
    ¾ tsp
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • cooked brown rice
    1 ½ c
  • cooked black beans

    drained and rinsed

    1 ½ c
  • corn kernels

    fresh or frozen

    1 c
  • fresh lime juice
    2 tbsp
  • lime zest
    1 tsp
  • pepper jack cheese
    1 c
  • fresh cilantro
    ½ c
  • Salsa
  • Avocado

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. 2

    Place the peppers, cut side up, on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bake for 10 minutes, or until tender. Tip out and discard any liquid that pools inside the peppers. Set the peppers aside while you prepare the filling.

  3. 3

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, jalapeño, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper and cook for 3 minutes, or until the tomato paste darkens and the spices are fragrant.

  4. 4

    Remove from the heat and stir in the brown rice, black beans, corn, and lime juice and zest. Season to taste.

  5. 5

    Fill the peppers with the rice mixture and top with the cheese. Place in a large baking dish and broil for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is browned.

  6. 6

    Top with fresh cilantro and serve with salsa and avocado, if desired, and lime wedges for squeezing.

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers

5.0(20)60 min4 servings

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 20 ratings

loveandlemons.com
5.0(20 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving a flavorful, hearty meal that's both satisfying and meat-free? These Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers deliver a delicious combination of textures and vibrant flavors, perfect for any weeknight or gathering. This recipe shines by building layers of robust flavor from aromatic vegetables like onion, jalapeño, and garlic, combined with the warmth of chili powder and cumin. The rich filling, featuring brown rice and black beans, ensures a substantial and fulfilling dish that appeals to everyone. You'll bite into tender, sweet red bell peppers overflowing with a savory, spiced filling. Each mouthful offers a delightful blend of textures: the hearty chew of brown rice and black beans, the crisp pop of corn, and the slight kick from jalapeño, all brightened by fresh lime. A gooey, cheesy topping of shredded pepper jack ties the flavors together beautifully. This dish offers a comforting warmth with a zesty, fresh finish from the cilantro and lime. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne if you like extra heat, or omit the jalapeño for a milder version. If pepper jack isn't your preference, a sharp cheddar or a Monterey Jack would also melt wonderfully over the top. For a dairy-free option, you could omit the cheese altogether. Serve these impressive vegetarian stuffed peppers as a standalone main course. They pair wonderfully with a side of fresh salsa and creamy avocado or a dollop of guacamole, adding extra layers of flavor and richness to your meal.

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