Stuffed peppers with rice and vegetables

Stuffed bell peppers with rice and vegetables

If you desire a delicious, healthy, and colorful meal, stuffed bell peppers with rice and vegetables are the perfect choice! This classic recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, transforming simple ingredients into refined dishes that will impress any guest. Moreover, stuffed peppers are versatile, allowing you to adapt them to your preferences, and each bite will remind you of warm, joyful family meals.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Ingredients:
- 5 bell peppers
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 4 champignon mushrooms
- 100 g rice
- 5 slices of tomatoes
- 350 ml tomato juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped herbs (parsley or dill)
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme

Recipe history:
Stuffed peppers have a long tradition in kitchens around the world. This recipe is an ingenious way to utilize vegetables and rice, turning them into an attractive main dish. Whether filled with meat, rice, or vegetables, stuffed peppers are often associated with Sunday family meals, full of stories and laughter.

Recipe preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the bell peppers thoroughly under cold running water. Cut off the top of each pepper, being careful not to damage their structure. Remove the seeds and internal membranes to facilitate filling.

2. Filling mixture:
In a large bowl, add the diced onion, grated carrots, diced mushrooms, and well-washed rice. It is important to wash the rice to remove the starch so that it does not stick during cooking.

3. Seasoning:
Add salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and chopped herbs to the vegetable and rice mixture. Mix well with a spatula or your hands, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.

4. Filling the peppers:
Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the vegetable and rice mixture. Do not overfill the peppers, as the rice will expand during cooking. Place them in a baking dish with the opening facing up.

5. Preparing the sauce:
In a bowl, mix the tomato juice with a little salt and pepper. Pour this sauce over the stuffed peppers, making sure to cover the filling well. Place the tomato slices on top of the peppers for added flavor and color.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the peppers for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and let them bake for another 15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the rice is well cooked.

7. Serving:
Once the peppers are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a special appearance and intense aroma.

Practical tips:
- You can add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini or peas. Each ingredient adds a unique note and different texture to the dish.
- If you want a vegetarian option, you can omit the rice and use quinoa or couscous. These alternatives are just as delicious and healthy.
- For a smoky flavor, you can add a bit of smoked paprika to the filling.
- If you have leftover filling, you can use it to make meatballs or to stuff zucchini.

Nutritional benefits:
Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, and the vegetable and rice filling offers a healthy combination of carbohydrates and fiber. This recipe is low in fat and rich in nutrients, making it ideal for a light meal during the week.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use peppers of other colors? Yes, red, yellow, or orange peppers are just as delicious and add a pop of color to the dish.
- How can I store stuffed peppers? They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and to reheat them, place them in the oven or microwave.
- Can I freeze stuffed peppers? Yes, it's a great idea! Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag to protect them from freezing.

Now, you are ready to prepare this delicious recipe for stuffed peppers with rice and vegetables! Whether you serve it at a dinner with friends or as a simple lunch, it will surely bring joy and flavor to every plate. Enjoy your meal!