Looking for a hearty, low-carb meal packed with flavor and nutrients? These stuffed bell peppers are the perfect solution! Bright, roasted peppers are filled with a savory mix of veggies, healthy fats, and plant-based protein, offering a satisfying and wholesome dinner option that’s keto-friendly and vegan. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and make great leftovers!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color; red, yellow, or orange work great)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 small onion, diced (adds sweetness and flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a flavorful punch)
- 1 zucchini, diced (for texture and color)
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped (adds umami richness)
- 1/2 cup cooked cauliflower rice (low-carb alternative to rice)
- 1/2 cup canned black beans (drained and rinsed; for protein)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (adds moisture and tang)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for richness)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (for warm spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, vegan flavor)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from inside. Place them in a baking dish, drizzle with a little olive oil, and roast for 10-15 minutes until slightly softened. - Prepare the filling.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add the vegetables.
Add the diced zucchini and mushrooms to the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are soft and the moisture has mostly evaporated. - Mix in the other ingredients.
Stir in the cauliflower rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Season the mixture with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Stir in the nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. - Stuff the peppers.
Remove the roasted bell peppers from the oven. Carefully spoon the filling mixture into each pepper until they are full and slightly overflowing. You can pack them down gently with the back of the spoon to make sure they’re fully stuffed. - Bake the stuffed peppers.
Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the peppers are tender and slightly browned on top. - Garnish and serve.
Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and if desired, add a sprinkle of extra nutritional yeast or a drizzle of olive oil.
Why This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe Works:
- Low-carb, high flavor. By using cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains, you keep this meal keto-friendly without sacrificing texture.
- Rich in plant-based protein. Black beans provide a satisfying dose of protein and fiber, making these stuffed peppers filling and nutritious.
- Customizable. Easily switch up the ingredients—add different veggies, swap beans for tofu, or top with avocado for extra creaminess.
Time-Saving Tips:
- Make ahead. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just stuff the peppers and bake.
- Freeze leftovers. These stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each pepper individually and freeze for a quick, delicious meal later.
These keto vegan stuffed bell peppers are a vibrant, nutritious, and satisfying choice for any meal. Packed with a delicious mix of low-carb vegetables and plant-based protein, they offer a healthy option that doesn’t compromise flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these stuffed peppers are easy to make and burst with bold, savory goodness in every bite. Whether following a keto diet, a vegan lifestyle, or just looking for a lighter, wholesome meal, these peppers will keep you full and energized. With their bright colors and rich flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!