Red Bell Pepper

Red Bell Pepper Description:

Red bell pepper, characterized by their vibrant colour and sweet, crisp flesh, are a versatile and flavourful vegetable. These bell peppers are a staple in many cuisines worldwide due to their mild yet distinctive taste. With their thick, crunchy texture and rich red hue, red bell peppers add visual appeal and depth of flavour to a wide range of dishes. Whether sliced raw for dipping, roasted for added sweetness, or sautéed in stir-fries and salads, red bell peppers lend a refreshing sweetness and a subtle smokiness to any recipe. Their versatility makes them ideal for stuffing, grilling, or blending into soups and sauces, allowing for endless culinary creativity in the kitchen. With their bright colour and sweet flavour, red bell peppers are a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike for their ability to elevate the taste and presentation of dishes.

Health Benefits:

Red bell pepper offer numerous health benefits due to their rich nutritional profile.  These peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, essential for immune function and collagen production. Additionally, they provide vitamin A, promoting eye health and skin rejuvenation. Red bell peppers also contain antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and protect against cellular damage. Furthermore, they are low in calories and high in fibre, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy weight. Incorporating red bell peppers into your diet can contribute to a balanced and nutritious eating pattern.

Stuffed Red Bell Pepper Recipe :

Here’s a delicious recipe for Stuffed Red Bell Peppers:

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice

-1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

– 4 large red bell peppers

– 1 cup diced tomatoes

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup diced vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms)

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

-1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)

– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the red bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa or rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
6. Spoon the quinoa mixture into each hollowed-out red bell pepper, packing it tightly.
7. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
11. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Stuffed Red Bell Peppers!

These stuffed peppers are packed with flavour and nutrients, making them a satisfying and wholesome meal option.