Mediterranean Lamb and Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A vibrant and flavorful gluten-free meal, featuring savory lamb and fluffy quinoa baked inside sweet bell peppers. A complete and satisfying dish inspired by Mediterranean sunshine.
2240 calories
$6 per serving
$45 min
4 servings
gluten-free, any cuisine
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 400g lean lamb mince
- 150g dry quinoa
- 300ml water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium zucchini, finely diced
- 150g cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1.Preheat your oven to 200°C. Rinse the quinoa thoroughly, then combine it with 300ml of water or broth in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- 2.While the quinoa cooks, slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange them cut-side up in a large baking dish.
- 3.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- 4.Add the lamb mince to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the diced zucchini, cumin, and coriander, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
- 5.Remove the pan from the heat. Gently stir in the cooked quinoa, quartered cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, mint, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- 6.Spoon the lamb and quinoa mixture evenly into the bell pepper halves. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top. Pour about 60ml of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers.
- 7.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving.
Nutrition Information
28g
fat
44g
carbs
8g
fiber
33g
protein
Why this recipe
This recipe is a powerhouse of balanced nutrition. Lean lamb provides high-quality protein, quinoa offers complete protein and fiber, and colorful vegetables deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for overall wellness.