Description
Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are a nutritious and vibrant dish, filled with protein-packed quinoa, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for a healthy meal or a delightful side dish!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the Peppers:
- While the quinoa is cooking, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, sliced olives, feta (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the quinoa mixture into each bell pepper until they are well filled.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the quinoa with other grains like farro or brown rice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins to the filling based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Quinoa stuffed peppers, Mediterranean recipe, healthy dinner