Healthy eating is not just about eating boring and tasteless food. You can eat delicious meals while still maintaining a healthy diet. One such dish is the quinoa and black bean stuffed bell peppers with avocado salsa. This dish is packed with nutrients and flavours that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Benefits of Quinoa and Black Beans
Quinoa and black beans are two ingredients that are not only delicious but also very nutritious. Quinoa is a grain that is high in protein, fibre, and several essential vitamins and minerals. Black beans, on the other hand, are an excellent source of protein, fibre, and antioxidants. Together, these two ingredients make a powerhouse of nutrition.
Ingredients
To make quinoa and black bean stuffed bell peppers with avocado salsa, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any colour)
- 1 cup of quinoa
- 1 can of black beans
- 1 cup of corn kernels
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp of chilli powder
- 1 tsp of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Here is a step-by-step guide to making quinoa and black bean stuffed bell peppers with avocado salsa:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed.
Step 3: Prepare the peppers
Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in a baking dish and set aside.
Step 4: Make the filling
In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Add the corn, black beans, chilli powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Combine the filling and quinoa
Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet with the vegetable mixture and stir to combine. Spoon the filling into the bell peppers, pressing down firmly.
Step 6: Bake the stuffed peppers
Bake the stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
Step 7: Make the avocado salsa
While the peppers are baking, make the avocado salsa. In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomato, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 8: Serve
Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Top each pepper with the avocado salsa and some fresh cilantro.
Conclusion
Quinoa and black bean stuffed bell peppers with avocado salsa is a delicious and healthy dish that you can easily make at home. It is packed with nutrients and flavours that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. This dish is perfect for those who are looking for a healthy and tasty meal option.
