Easy Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

Vegetarian stuffed bell peppers with rice are a versatile and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory rice and vegetable filling, seasoned with aromatic spices.

It’s easy to customize with different grains, beans, or seasonings, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal-prepping, or hosting guests, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress.

Ingredients

  

4 large bell peppers red, green, yellow, or orange

1 cup cooked rice white, brown, or wild

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup diced onions

2 cloves garlic minced

½ cup diced zucchini

½ cup diced mushrooms

½ cup canned diced tomatoes drained

½ cup black beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese optional

Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

 

Prepare the Bell Peppers:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.

Optional: Pre-bake the peppers for 10 minutes or blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes for softer peppers.

Cook the Filling:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Sauté the diced onions and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add the zucchini and mushrooms, cooking until tender, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Mix the vegetable mixture with the cooked rice until evenly combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Stuff the Bell Peppers:

Place the prepared bell peppers upright in a baking dish.

Fill each pepper generously with the rice and vegetable mixture.

Optional: Top with shredded cheese.

Bake:

Add a small amount of water or tomato sauce to the bottom of the baking dish to keep the peppers moist.

Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.