🌶️ Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa & Herbs
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🌶️ For the Peppers
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4 large bell peppers (any color)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt & pepper to taste
🍚 For the Filling
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1 cup cooked quinoa (or rice/bulgur)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
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½ cup chopped spinach or kale
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¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
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¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional for vegan version: skip or use vegan feta)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp paprika
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2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
✅ Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
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Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
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Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
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Brush with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper.
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Place them upright in a baking dish.
✅ Step 2: Make the Filling
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
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Add garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, and spinach.
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Cook for another 3–5 minutes, stirring until thickened.
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Add cooked quinoa, olives, parsley, and feta. Mix well.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
✅ Step 3: Fill & Bake
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Spoon the filling into each bell pepper.
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Drizzle with a little olive oil.
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Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until the tops are slightly golden.
✅ Step 4: Serve
Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Pairs beautifully with:
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🥗 Greek yogurt or tzatziki
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🫓 Warm pita bread
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🍷 A glass of lemon water or light wine (optional)
💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits
| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | High in protein, gluten-free, and rich in fiber. |
| Bell peppers | Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. |
| Olive oil | Supports heart and brain health. |
| Spinach | Excellent source of iron and magnesium. |
| Tomatoes | Provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. |
✅ Healthy Tips
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🌿 Add chickpeas or lentils to the filling for extra protein.
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🍅 Substitute quinoa with brown rice or couscous for variety.
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🧊 Store leftovers up to 3 days — reheat easily in the oven or microwave.
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🧄 Add chili flakes if you prefer a bit of spice!













