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It’s filling, flavorful, and blood sugar-friendly meal! These Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers check all the boxes of blood sugar balance, taste and ease! Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy carbs, this dish helps keep blood sugar steady while being absolutely delicious.
Why This Recipe Works for Blood Sugar Balance
- High in Fiber: Quinoa, black beans, and bell peppers provide plenty of fiber, slowing down digestion and preventing blood sugar spikes.
- Balanced Macros: A mix of protein (quinoa, black beans), complex carbs (quinoa, corn), and healthy fats (Avocado oil) keeps you satisfied.
- Low-Glycemic Ingredients: Quinoa has a lower glycemic index than white rice, and black beans help improve insulin response.
- No Added Sugar: Many stuffed pepper recipes use sugary sauces—this one lets whole food ingredients shine!
Ingredients
- 6.5 oz. (185g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 16 fl oz. (470ml) vegetable stock
- 6 medium bell peppers, tops cut off, cores removed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 14 oz. (400g) canned diced tomatoes
- 14 oz. (400g) canned black beans, drained & rinsed
- 5 oz. (140g) frozen corn, thawed
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 3.5 oz. (100g) shredded vegan cheese
- Cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- In a pot, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place them cut side up in a baking dish with a little water at the bottom to prevent burning.
3. Make the Quinoa Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently.
- Stir in cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt (½ tsp.), and black pepper (¼ tsp.).
- Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Fill and Bake
- Spoon the quinoa mixture into the prepared bell peppers.
- Sprinkle shredded vegan cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm!
Tips for Success
✔ Choose Firm Bell Peppers – They hold their shape better after baking.
✔ Pre-Cook Peppers for Softer Texture – If you like extra-tender peppers, microwave or steam them for 5 minutes before stuffing.
✔ Add Extra Protein – Stir in cooked lentils or shredded chicken for a protein boost.
✔ Make It Spicy – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly – These store well in the fridge for 3–4 days, making them great for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These stuffed peppers are a balanced meal on their own, but here are a few ways to round out your plate:
🥗 Side Salad – A fresh cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon dressing.
🥑 Avocado Slices – A creamy topping that adds healthy fats.
🍚 Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb addition for extra volume.
🥄 Greek Yogurt or Guacamole – A cool and creamy topping option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Yes! Try brown rice, farro, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Are these stuffed peppers spicy?
Nope! They’re mild, but you can spice them up with chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Microwave for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes to keep the texture fresh.
This Diabetes-Friendly Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is simple, satisfying, and perfect for balanced blood sugar levels. Try it out and let me know how you like it, and get the simplified recipe in the recipe card! 🌱💚
You can also try it out with some of my favorite main dishes like:
- Lemon Rosemary Chicken
- Pan-Roasted Salmon with Lemon Basil Cream Sauce
- Ancho Chile Rubbed Ribeye Steaks
Diabetes-Friendly Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Diabetic
Description
Enjoy these Diabetes-Friendly Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers – a delicious, high-fiber, and protein-packed meal perfect for balanced blood sugar levels. Made with quinoa, black beans, and veggies, this easy, plant-based recipe is flavorful, satisfying, and great for meal prep!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6.5 oz. (185g) uncooked quinoa, rinsed
- 16 fl oz. (470ml) vegetable stock
- 6 medium bell peppers, tops cut off, cores removed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 14 oz. (400g) canned diced tomatoes
- 14 oz. (400g) canned black beans, drained & rinsed
- 5 oz. (140g) frozen corn, thawed
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 3.5 oz. (100g) shredded vegan cheese
- Cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- In a pot, combine rinsed quinoa and vegetable stock.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
- Place them cut side up in a baking dish with a little water at the bottom to prevent burning.
3. Make the Quinoa Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp. olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently.
- Stir in cooked quinoa, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cumin, paprika, salt (½ tsp.), and black pepper (¼ tsp.).
- Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
4. Fill and Bake
- Spoon the quinoa mixture into the prepared bell peppers.
- Sprinkle shredded vegan cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm!
Notes
✔ Choose Firm Bell Peppers – They hold their shape better after baking.
✔ Pre-Cook Peppers for Softer Texture – If you like extra-tender peppers, microwave or steam them for 5 minutes before stuffing.
✔ Add Extra Protein – Stir in cooked lentils or shredded chicken for a protein boost.
✔ Make It Spicy – Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
✔ Want to lower the carb count? – pull back on the quinoa and add more veg.
✔ Meal Prep Friendly – These store well in the fridge for 3–4 days, making them great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Diabetes-Friendly, Plant-Based
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired, Vegetarian, Vegan-Friendly, Healthy Eating
Nutrition
- Serving Size:
- Calories: 307
- Sugar: 9.5 g
- Sodium: 469 mg
- Fat: 7.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.8 g
- Carbohydrates: 50.9 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Protein: 11.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
