"Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Vegetables":
**Ingredients:**
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Quinoa:**
- In a saucepan, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
2. **Preheat Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. **Prepare Bell Peppers:**
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish.
4. **Sauté Vegetables:**
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add diced zucchini, grated carrot, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. **Season:**
- Stir in dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Mix well.
6. **Combine Quinoa and Vegetables:**
- Add the cooked quinoa to the vegetable mixture. Mix until well combined.
7. **Stuff Bell Peppers:**
- Spoon the quinoa and vegetable mixture into each bell pepper. Press down gently to pack the filling.
8. **Top with Tomato Sauce:**
- Pour tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers. Optionally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for extra richness.
9. **Bake:**
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
10. **Garnish and Serve:**
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve the stuffed bell peppers hot. Enjoy the delicious and nutritious vegetarian meal!
These Stuffed Bell Peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with a flavorful and wholesome combination of quinoa and assorted vegetables.
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