Are you looking for a way to add some excitement to your meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition? Look no further than the humble bell pepper! With its vibrant colors and sweet, slightly smoky taste, it’s a natural addition to any dish. And with so many varieties to choose from – green, red, yellow, orange, and even purple – you’re sure to find one that fits your mood and culinary style.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and healthy bell pepper recipes that are perfect for everything from breakfast to dinner, including snacks in between. From classic stuffed peppers to innovative stir-fries and salads, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of this amazing ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration here to elevate your meals and impress your friends and family.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty flavor of quinoa and the earthiness of black beans, making for a nutritious and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Salad
This vibrant salad combines the sweet flavor of roasted red peppers with the earthy taste of chickpeas, perfect for a quick and healthy meal or snack. The smoky sweetness from the peppers pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the hummus.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup hummus
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove skin, chop into small pieces, and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Add roasted red pepper to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Drizzle with hummus and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bell Pepper and Turkey Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory taste of turkey, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite stir-fry vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with your favorite stir-fry vegetables if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Grilled Bell Pepper and Zucchini Skewers
Add a pop of color and flavor to your outdoor gatherings with these easy-to-make skewers, perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread bell peppers and zucchinis onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Serve hot as a side dish or use as a topping for your favorite meals.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Healthy Bell Pepper and Egg Scramble
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast that combines the goodness of bell peppers and eggs. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 large bell pepper (any color), diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well beaten.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced bell pepper and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour the eggs over the bell peppers and scramble until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bell Pepper Salsa with Fresh Herbs
This vibrant salsa combines sweet bell peppers with fresh herbs, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. The result is a flavorful and refreshing condiment that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine bell peppers, cilantro, parsley, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers with Hummus
Brighten up your snack time with these adorable and flavorful mini bell peppers stuffed with creamy hummus. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as an appetizer for a gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 mini bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese or chopped walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the mini bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together hummus, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with about 1 tablespoon of the hummus mixture.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Avocado Salad
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and charred.
3. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and slice into strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted bell pepper strips, diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro leaves.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (including roasting time)
Baked Bell Pepper Nachos with Lean Ground Turkey
Transform your snack time into a flavorful fiesta with this healthier take on classic nachos! This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the savory goodness of lean ground turkey and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Arrange bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cooked turkey, oats, cheese, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
5. Spoon the turkey mixture over roasted bell peppers and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
6. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bell Pepper and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with roasted bell peppers and cauliflower “rice”, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. This recipe is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly!
Ingredients:
– 2 bell peppers, any color
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your choice of protein (e.g. chicken, tofu, beans), herbs, or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the bell peppers in half and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Place the bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until it resembles rice.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the baking sheet with the bell peppers.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Spinach Frittata
A delicious and healthy breakfast or brunch option that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutritional benefits of spinach. This frittata is perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 large bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the bell pepper and onion over medium heat until tender.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour egg mixture over the bell pepper and spinach mixture in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until eggs are fully set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
9. Slice and serve hot, with shredded cheese on top if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Bell Pepper and Tofu Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to add some color and nutrients to your meal. With the combination of tender tofu, crunchy bell peppers, and savory soy sauce, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir in the soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Lentil Soup
This vibrant and flavorful soup combines the sweetness of roasted bell peppers with the comforting warmth of red lentils, perfect for a cozy meal. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add lentils, cumin, broth, and roasted bell peppers. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bell Pepper and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
These wraps are a perfect combination of crispy, crunchy, and savory, all wrapped up in a fresh lettuce package. With juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, and creamy avocado, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with salt, pepper, and 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, grill bell pepper strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Assemble wraps by placing grilled chicken, bell peppers, avocado, and feta cheese (if using) onto a bed of mixed greens.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Mushroom Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, bursting with the sweetness of bell peppers and earthiness of mushrooms. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together bell pepper, mushrooms, garlic, and cheese.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the bell pepper-mushroom mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper and Sweet Potato Hash
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional hash by combining roasted bell peppers and sweet potatoes with crispy onions and a hint of garlic. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, seeded and sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
4. Add roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bell Pepper and Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and vibrant skillet dish that combines succulent shrimp with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the bell pepper strips and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bell Pepper and Cucumber Gazpacho
Gazpacho, a Spanish soup, is perfect for hot summer days when you need something light and rejuvenating. This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the crunch of cucumbers to create a flavorful and refreshing soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine bell peppers, cucumbers, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
4. Add the blended mixture and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the broth and water, and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of bell peppers with these 18 healthy recipe ideas! From stuffed peppers to salads, stir-fries, and more, this collection showcases the versatility of bell peppers. Try Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa and Black Beans, Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Salad, or Bell Pepper and Turkey Stir-Fry for a flavorful meal. With a range of vegetarian, vegan, and meat-based options, there’s something for everyone in this delicious roundup of healthy bell pepper recipes.
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