Stuffed Bell Peppers
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (any color, but green is classic)
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (or use cooked lentils for vegetarian option)
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Place peppers in a baking dish, cut-side up.
2. Make the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onions and garlic; cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff and Bake:
Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared bell peppers.
Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top of each pepper.
Pour a little water (about 1/4 inch) into the bottom of the baking dish to keep the peppers moist.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish & Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
White Bean and Spinach Side
Ingredients:
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Add spinach or escarole and cook until wilted.
Add white beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook until heated through (about 3 minutes).
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.