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- 4 large bell peppers (choose your favorite colors) - 1 cup cooked quinoa (any variety) - 1 can black beans, thoroughly rinsed and drained - 1 cup corn kernels (can be fresh or frozen) - 1 cup diced tomatoes (use fresh or canned, drained if using canned) - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional) This dish serves four. Each serving offers great nutrition. You get protein from the quinoa and beans. The peppers add vitamins A and C. Cheese gives you calcium. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving: - Calories: 300 - Protein: 15g - Carbs: 45g - Fat: 10g - Fiber: 10g This recipe is quite versatile. It’s vegetarian and can be vegan if you skip the cheese. Use dairy-free cheese for a tasty option. Those with gluten issues can enjoy it too; all ingredients are gluten-free. If you need a lower-carb choice, swap quinoa for riced cauliflower. You can make these stuffed peppers fit many diets based on your needs. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key. A hot air fryer helps cook the peppers evenly. Next, grab your bell peppers. Carefully slice off the tops and toss the stems. Remove the seeds and membranes. Now, you have a nice cavity for the stuffing. Stand the peppers up in a bowl. This makes filling them easier. In a large bowl, mix the filling. Combine 1 cup of cooked quinoa, 1 can of rinsed black beans, 1 cup of corn, and 1 cup of diced tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir the mixture well. Now it’s time to stuff the peppers. Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture. Press gently to pack it in tightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they have space for air to flow. Cook for 12-15 minutes. You want the peppers to be tender and the cheese to be golden and bubbly. Use tongs to remove them carefully. Enjoy your delicious creation! Air frying stuffed peppers is quick and easy. Here are some key tips: - Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step helps cook the peppers evenly. - Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between peppers for hot air to flow. - Check for doneness at 12 minutes. Cook longer if you want softer peppers. - Use a toothpick to test tenderness. It should slide in easily. You can make your stuffed peppers unique! Here are some fun ideas: - Add spices like chili powder for heat or oregano for a Mediterranean twist. - Mix in proteins such as ground turkey or chicken for a heartier meal. - Swap quinoa for rice or couscous to change the base. - Try different cheeses like feta or pepper jack for new flavors. Serving your stuffed peppers well can impress your guests. Here are some ideas: - Garnish with fresh cilantro for color and taste. - Serve with a side salad to balance the meal. - Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for creaminess. - Pair with crusty bread to soak up any extra filling. These tips will make your air fryer stuffed peppers even more delicious and fun! Pro Tips Choose Colorful Peppers: Using a variety of colored bell peppers not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also adds subtle flavor differences. Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced onions, jalapeños, or different types of beans to personalize the filling to your taste. Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your peppers, you may need to adjust the cooking time; larger peppers may require a few extra minutes in the air fryer. Serve with Dips: Pair your stuffed peppers with a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, or sour cream to elevate the flavor experience. {{image_4}} You can make stuffed peppers fully vegetarian by using different grains. Instead of quinoa, try brown rice or farro for a hearty base. You can also use lentils to add protein and fiber. Add some sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, can brighten the dish up. If you want a meatier dish, swap the beans for ground turkey or beef. Just cook them first before mixing with the other ingredients. You can also use shredded chicken or diced tofu for a good protein boost. These options will give your stuffed peppers a different taste while keeping them filling and delicious. Switch up the cheese for a unique twist! While cheddar and mozzarella are great, you can use feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor. For a spicy kick, try pepper jack. Mixing different cheeses can also create a fun flavor profile. Just remember to sprinkle enough on top to make a bubbly, golden crust. Once you finish your meal, let the stuffed peppers cool down. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to four days. This way, you can enjoy them later without losing flavor. To reheat your stuffed peppers, use the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Heat the peppers for about 5 to 7 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm. You can also use a microwave, but it might make them a bit soft. Heat on high for about 2 minutes, checking after one minute. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each pepper in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cook stuffed peppers in an air fryer for 12 to 15 minutes. They should be tender and the cheese should melt. Check them at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking. If you want them softer, add a few more minutes. Yes, you can use frozen bell peppers. Thaw them first, then stuff them as usual. Frozen peppers may have more moisture, so adjust your filling to avoid sogginess. You can use rice or couscous instead of quinoa. Both add great texture. If you want a lower carb option, try cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick. You can also use spicy cheese or a hot sauce drizzle on top. Taste as you go to find your perfect heat level. Absolutely! Prepare the peppers and filling a day in advance. Store them in the fridge. When you're ready, just stuff the peppers and air fry them. This makes for a quick meal on busy days. You learned about making stuffed peppers in the air fryer. We covered the right ingredients and their nutrition. I shared easy steps to prepare, stuff, and cook your peppers. You got helpful tips for better flavor and storage. Experiment with variations to suit your taste. Now, try making your own stuffed peppers. They are tasty, fun to make, and quite healthy. Enjoy your cooking journey!

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Delight

A delicious and colorful dish featuring bell peppers stuffed with a savory quinoa mixture, perfect for a healthy meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can black beans
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • optional fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the shredded cheese.
  • Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, pressing down gently.
  • Top each pepper with the remaining shredded cheese.
  • Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket with space between them.
  • Cook in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes until tender and cheese is melted.
  • Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the air fryer.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired before serving.

Notes

Serve the stuffed peppers on a colorful platter, allowing their vibrant hues to shine. Pair with a side salad or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch!
Keyword air fryer, healthy recipe, stuffed peppers