Looking for a flavorful and nutritious dish that will impress your guests or simply elevate your weeknight dinner routine? These Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Packed with protein-rich quinoa, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a delightful vegetarian option that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into creating this delicious and satisfying dish!
**Quinoa Stuffed Peppers**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, and tomato to the skillet, and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir the cooked quinoa into the vegetable mixture, and season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
8. Spoon the quinoa and vegetable mixture into the hollowed-out bell peppers, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the tops to slightly brown.
11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
12. Enjoy these delicious Quinoa Stuffed Peppers hot, garnished with extra feta cheese or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
These Quinoa Stuffed Peppers are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying thanks to the hearty quinoa and colorful array of veggies. Whether you serve them as a main dish or a side, they are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with this delectable recipe!
