Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a beloved dish across many cultures, known for their vibrant presentation and hearty fillings. Traditionally, these peppers are often laden with a tomato-based sauce, but our recipe takes a delightful departure by omitting tomato sauce, showcasing the natural flavors of the peppers and their fillings. This article will guide you through making stuffed peppers without tomato sauce, a perfect option for those looking for a lighter yet equally tasty alternative.

What are Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce?

Stuffed peppers without tomato sauce are bell peppers, hollowed and filled with a mix of ingredients such as grains, proteins, and vegetables, then cooked until perfectly tender. The absence of tomato sauce allows the natural sweetness of the peppers and the savory filling to shine through, providing a different experience that is both satisfying and less heavy.

Ingredients of This Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce?

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Bell peppers	6, assorted colors
Ground turkey	1 pound
Cooked quinoa	1 cup
Black beans	1 cup, drained
Corn	1 cup
Onion	1, finely chopped
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Cumin	1 tsp
Paprika	1 tsp
Cheddar cheese	1/2 cup, shredded
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Salt and pepper	To taste

Equipment for This Recipe

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula
• Baking dish

Instruction Detail of This Recipe

1. Preparation:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
2. Cook the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
   • Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
   • Stir in cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until everything is heated through.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
   • Spoon the filling into each hollowed-out pepper. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake:
   • Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

What to Serve with This Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce?

Stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own but can be paired with:

• A light salad, such as a cucumber salad or a mixed greens salad.
• Garlic bread or crusty rolls.
• A glass of white wine or a light red wine.

What Does the Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce Taste Like?

These stuffed peppers have a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The peppers themselves are sweet and tender, contrasting beautifully with the savory, slightly spicy filling. The cheese adds a creamy, melty component that ties all the flavors together.

How Healthy is This Recipe?

This recipe is quite healthy:

• It’s packed with protein from the turkey and quinoa.
• The peppers and other vegetables provide fiber and vitamins.
• It’s lower in calories without the heavy sauce, making it a lighter option.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Recipe

• Choose Firm Peppers: Select brightly colored, firm peppers that will hold up well during baking.
• Cook Filling Thoroughly: Make sure the filling is thoroughly cooked before stuffing the peppers to ensure even cooking.
• Add Moisture If Needed: If the filling seems dry, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to keep it moist during cooking.

What Makes This Stuffed Peppers Without Tomato Sauce Delicious?

The combination of textures and the hearty filling balanced by the sweet bell peppers makes this dish particularly appealing. Each component is carefully chosen to complement the others, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.

Five FAQs about This Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes, ground beef, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu can be used.
2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   • Yes, assemble the peppers a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   • Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
   • Yes, fully cooked stuffed peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, as long as the quinoa and spices used are gluten-free, this recipe is gluten-free.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280
Protein	18g
Total Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	27g
Dietary Fiber	6g
Sugars	8g

Conclusion

Stuffed peppers without tomato sauce are a delicious and healthy alternative to the classic recipe. They offer a lighter meal option without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to spice up your dinner routine, these stuffed peppers are sure to delight.