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Vegan Stuffed Peppers

These vegan stuffed peppers are baked until tender, filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, all wrapped in colorful bell peppers. The dish boasts a smoky, herbal aroma with a layered, satisfying texture and a vibrant appearance. The process involves roasting, sautéing, stuffing, and baking to create a wholesome, visually appealing main course.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers firm, shiny, with heavy feel
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing and drizzling
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed and cooked
  • 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 can diced tomatoes drained
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness
  • optional fresh herbs for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • sharp knife
  • pan
  • spoon
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove all seeds and membranes, creating a clean cavity for stuffing.
  2. Place the peppers upside down on a baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes; this softens their skins and enhances flavor.
  3. While the peppers are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring, until fragrant and slightly translucent, about 3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until aromatic. Then add the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and filling to heat through.
  5. Remove the roasted peppers from the oven and increase oven temperature to 200°C (390°F). Carefully stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling in.
  6. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish, drizzle a little olive oil over the top, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly blistered on the surface.
  7. Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, fresh flavor.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the layered, hearty flavors and vibrant colors.